I had a pair of Mullard EL34's that I pulled out of an old Musicman. I had them tested about a year ago at one tube shop and the guy gave 'em both a thumbs down. :(He didn't let me watch) Went to a different tube shop today and something told me to bring them just for the hell of it. One tested almost new So....the shop owner just happened to have some good used ones avaiable, and now I have a pair of XF2's for 'ol Yvonne (my Express) to chew up! I also picked up a nice black plate RCA 5751. Man I've got to get me a tube tester. I just love these things.
Just because the test "good" in a tube tester doesn't mean they will be "good" in an amp. Most tube testers don't come even remotely close to the operating conditions in a guitar amp. A tester is really only good for pre-screening of dead/operable for a tube. However, they may work fine. This is just an FYI.
dartanion wrote:Just because the test "good" in a tube tester doesn't mean they will be "good" in an amp. Most tube testers don't come even remotely close to the operating conditions in a guitar amp. A tester is really only good for pre-screening of dead/operable for a tube. However, they may work fine. This is just an FYI.
I'm aware of that. I am going to check them out in my amp tommorrow. This dealer will work with me to get a set going. He's a pretty straight shooter, and he has more.
Jim
M Fowler wrote:That damn Radio Shack guy has been lying to me for the past 40 years
Hey Mark, You do know that all Radio Shack branded tubes came with a Lifetime Guarantee. Just take it back and they have to give you a new one. Of course you may be trading in a real Mullard for a brand new piece of crap.
Seriously though, I really think this might be the ticket for my (now my buddy's) somewhat manic express. Is there a good source for these NOS? What the going price for the black plates?
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KellyBass wrote:I'll be happy to test those as well!
Seriously though, I really think this might be the ticket for my (now my buddy's) somewhat manic express. Is there a good source for these NOS? What the going price for the black plates?
:(He didn't let me watch) Went to a different tube shop today and something told me to bring them just for the hell of it. One tested almost new 
So....the shop owner just happened to have some good used ones avaiable, and now I have a pair of XF2's for 'ol Yvonne (my Express) to chew up! 
I also picked up a nice black plate RCA 5751. Man I've got to get me a tube tester. I just love these things.
