AudioCircle
Audio/Video Gear and Systems => Tube-o-phile Circle => Topic started by: Captain Humble on 14 Dec 2006, 01:28 pm
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Recently, one of our members saw a post of mine that indicated that I had purchased a Tung-Sol tube from the Tube-Shop and he asked for feedback regarding that vendor.
Being new to tubes myself, I had simply googled the tube I was looking for and placed an order.
At that time all I knew about the Tube-Shop was that they are based in the UK.
Obviously I took a small chance that they were a reputable company.
So now I'm thinking that it would be nice if there was a single thread that covered tube suppliers and our collective experiences dealing with those vendors. So...I'll start it off and I hope others will provide feedback regarding their tube buying experiences.
http://www.tube-shop.com/
THE TUBE-SHOP:
1. I ordered a Tung-Sol on 11/28/06 & received an order confirmation email that day.
2. I Received a credit card transaction email on the 29th.
3. There was no further communication from the Tube Shop until I sent them the following on 12/6/06:
Your website indicates that my order is still being processed.
I received your confirmation email of your receipt of my order a week ago so I’m most curious as to when you intend to ship. Please advise.
When you do ship, do you email a tracking number to me?
I’m also curious to know if this is a new tube or used tube.
The details below are from your email to me confirming receipt of my order on 11/28/06.
Thank you,
Jeff
4. Received the following from the Tube-Shop on 12/6/06:
Dear Jeff,
Firstly thanks for ordering with Tube-Shop.com! We are having a few problems with the web site at the moment, the order status page is not updating properly. Your order was shipped on 29th November and should be with you by the end of the week. The consignment number is RI 4365 5753 9GB. The tube is brand new, the only use it has had was during testing.
If you need any other assistance, please let me know.
Kind regards
Joanne Smith
5. Received the tube via US Mail 12/11/06.
6. The tube plays fine and was well packaged including a pin protector.
7. The tube was double boxed and packed in peanuts.
8. I would buy from them again.
Jeff
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I've ordered a from a couple of different online vendors and had good luck.
The Tube Store in Ontario - http://www.thetubestore.com/index.html
They carry (mainly) new tubes. they do have the odd selection of NOS but their supply is spotty. Of the tubes I've ordered (12A series, some 6BM8's plus an odd tube or two), from the time of ordering to reciept wasn't more than a week at most. I called rather than using the online checkout.
Rating (1-5, 5 being best)
Service - :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Pricing - :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Parts Express - http://www.partsexpress.com/
Again, mainly new tubes though they do have some odd JAN NOS tubes. I've ordered from them about two or three times.
Service - :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Pricing - :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Triode Electronics - http://store.triodestore.com/
I've not ordered tubes from them (though they do carry them), I've ordered nifty resistors and caps from them and had really good luck with them.
Service - :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Pricing - :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Upscale Audio - www.upscaleaudio.com
I know, I know....Kevin takes a lot of crap at times for the price of his tubes and sometimes his service but I've had nothing but good luck from Kevin. I know his prices are high (sometimes really high) but if you want teh best, sometimes you just have to bit the bullet and pry open your wallet.
Service - :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Pricing - :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Vacuum Tube Valley - http://www.vacuumtube.com/
This is one I'll list but I really don't want to get into the reasons other than to say that I will never deal with these guys again.
Service - :thumbdown:
Pricing - :thumb: :thumb:
If I think of any more, I'll add them later.
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Hey!
Scott, that is a very creative way of using the thumb smiley :lol:
Yes, I do agreed with you on the Triode Electronic. I've ordered from them couple of time... but not lately. They do have great price and service... I just wish they have more selection on they site.
Upscale Audio is great for nice NOS but you pay hefty for it :?
Take care,
Buddy :thumb:
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Great topic!
Scott F. beat me to the punch with the Tube Store. At the moment, I purchase only 6BQ5/EL84 in a set of two for my headphone amp. Great service, double-boxed - no problem. Also used Parts Express with similar success. Borrowing Scott F.'s rating system.
Also, I have used:
Antique Electronics: http://www.tubesandmore.com/
Service: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Pricing: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
The Tube Center: http://www.thetubecenter.com/index.html
Service: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Pricing: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Wanting to try out this guy (these guys/ gals?):
http://www.dougstubes.com
For a wealth of resources (that I have used), check out this link:
http://www.triodeel.com/tlinks.htm
Which is part of this page:
http://www.triodeelectronics.com/
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I'm new to tubes also so this is a useful thread. I've ordered from Brent Jesse, http://www.audiotubes.com and have been very satisfied. His web site had alot of information about individual tubes and lets you try to figure out what might best suit your needs and be the better buy. Some of the other sites I visited did not mention any weakness in any of the tubes they sold so it was hard to decide what would be best. Brent also sells some cool T-shirts with vintage tube logos.
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I made this sticky as I think it a great resource for all in the future :thumb:
Here's an interesting resource I just found last night - on ebay:
http://stores.ebay.com/SaleRCS
They sell only new, not NOS...but EVERYTHING is cryo'ed, and at prices less than I've found for non-cryoed equivalents. I'm not sure how they do that...but I've got two shiny new, cryo'ed Electro-Harmonix 5U4GB rectifiers coming shortly and will see.
EDIT: They arrived, packed beautifully, and sound great
I paid $11.95 per for them (cryo'ed) vs. the same non-cryo'ed (and, also, not matched) tube from the normally well-priced Joe at Triode Electronics for $13.45 :o
They are located in nearby Milpitas, CA (south of San Francisco), so shipments to CA are fast, in particular.
I haven't found NOS tubes to be any particularly better than new ones if chosen carefully (the main benefit either way is that you are swapping out a tired, languid tube for a fresh one, full of vim and vigor), so I'll probably make use of these guys a lot. Some of you hardened NOS guys may not care for their offerings, tho.
I also can't truly point to any superiority of cryo'ed tubes over non-cryo'ed....but if I'm not paying any more for them that way, I'll buy them from him that way :wink:
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Re: TheChairGuy - those prices are cheap! Thanks for link; I've always wanted to try the cryo'ed verions.
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Waw...I bought a quad of Tung Sol 6550 for more than he is selling his cryoed versions. He has some good prices...I may just try some of his stuff.
I didn't see his return policy...does he exchange defective tubes?
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Waw...I bought a quad of Tung Sol 6550 for more than he is selling his cryoed versions. He has some good prices...I may just try some of his stuff.
I didn't see his return policy...does he exchange defective tubes?
I'm not sure, you may want to ask him. The proprietors name seems to be Ron Shelton...as this was the PayPal account I sent it to.
My rectifiers were packed in total overkill packaging - it's unlikely they'll break on the ride...it would only be a case of defective tube (from factory) that you'd need to use any exchange policy.
I may just buy some cryo'ed EH 12au7's from him now I'm so pleased, overall.
John/TCG
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Here's a direct link to his Store website and it's return policy
http://www.cryoset.com/catalog/shipping.php?osCsid=f5d122242cbf5b02907e5ac9d72ec017
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Never bought from them myself, but http://www.angela.com/ seems to have a good selection and reasonable prices.
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Thanks Burke...didn't see it on the ebay store. I ordered my matching quad of Tung sol 6550 from Triode, took them a while to ship, and when I received them, one of the tubes wouldn't bias , so had another delay of having to return the tubes(the whole quad) to them and waiting another week or two for replacement, can't say I care too much for their service...they don't test the tubes they ship, they rely on the factory testing them. yeah rite.
I recently ordered a couple pairs of small NOS tubes from Jim McShane, and am quite happy with his service. He tests all his tubes and notes the results on the tube themselves as well as on the box. Plus his prices are very reasonable.
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Good service from the Tube-Shop..... http://www.tube-shop.com/
Captain Humble ordered a tube for me (Tung-Sol 2C51)....shipped from England on 12/19, arrived in fine shape-well packed on 12/22/06 - USPS. Good service....good tube....thanks Jeff :D
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Vintage Tube Services (http://www.vintagetubeservices.com/page19.html). Andy Bouwman is simply the best. He meticulously tests and matches his tubes every which way from Sunday. His prices are quite fair, and he offers a return policy but you won't need it. If he says the tubes are matched and quiet, you can take it to the bank. He always polishes the pins before he ships them. He never answers emails. You must call him. If he says he will call you back, don't count on it. It won't happen. Taking delivery sometimes takes two weeks, so it's not instant gratification, but his tubes are the real deal and will not disappoint. Highly recommended despite his quirks. He is quitting the tube business shortly. He will be sorely missed.
I agree 100%. Andy and his tube services are simply amazing! He is a veritable encyclopedia of tube knowledge so be prepared for an enlightening conversation 8) He also will test tubes that were bought from other sources should you ever need it.
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Good service from the Tube-Shop..... http://www.tube-shop.com/
Captain Humble ordered a tube for me (Tung-Sol 2C51)....shipped from England on 12/19, arrived in fine shape-well packed on 12/22/06 - USPS. Good service....good tube....thanks Jeff :D
My pleasure Chris. :thumb:
The WE396A you sent me didn't make it to Dallas before we left for New Orleans.
I'm looking forward to taking it for a spin when we get home.
Thanks.
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If you like JJ tubes and amplifiers, give Bob a shot at your business. I've purchased several tubes and one amp from him. He's easy to work with a true to his word.
http://www.eurotubes.com (http://www.eurotubes.com)
Product: :smoke: :smoke: :smoke: :smoke:
Service: :smoke: :smoke: :smoke: :smoke:
Jim
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VINTAGE TUBE SERVICE--simply the best as far as quality and advice.He has a special way of descaling tube pins that I must say works.He tests the hell out of the tubes.I've ordered mirror matched with great success.He also GUARENTEES for one year.
Rollo
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http://www.triodeelectronics.com/
I ordered a matched pair of JJ/Tesla Ecc802/12AU7 (Long Plates) on December 29, by phone, and they arrived at my home on January 3rd. Tubes work beautifully!! Helpfull and friendly.
Product: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Service/Price: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Ordered another matched pair of the same tubes, on Friday.
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Jim McShane, great guy, great products.
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http://www.triodeelectronics.com/
I ordered a matched pair of JJ/Tesla Ecc802/12AU7 (Long Plates) on December 29, by phone, and they arrived at my home on January 3rd. Tubes work beautifully!! Helpfull and friendly.
Product: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Service/Price: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Ordered another matched pair of the same tubes, on Friday.
Hey!
Yup, they are great, very good price and fast shipping. I've ordered from them couple of times before. I just wish that they have more selection. :?
I would love to get a quad of Ei 12AX7 Gold Elite but they seem to be out for a long time now. :(
Take care,
Buddy :thumb:
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Does anyone have any experience with these guys?
http://www.tubedepot.com/index.html
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If it's new tubes, this fella' on ebay (ID:jspht8338) is highly recommended:
http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQfrppZ25QQfrtsZ0QQsassZjspht8338
He has a very large selection of Sovtek, Electro Harmonix, JJ, and EI tubes....and often has Gold Pin versions of several I don't often see readily in the market. His prices are very fair (I just bought Gold Pin EH12AU7's for $1.00 less per tube than above mentioned Tube Depot price), his communication and shipping is crisp and excellent. He's in the Los Angeles area...particularly appealing to me here on the Left Coast.
I'm not a NOS guy, to many hits and misses, I generally find that replacing NOS for new takes a tired tube out of the sonic scene. I really think the new sellers make a lot of great stuff nowadays...and by 'great' I mean well made: thick glass, low noise, low microphony, consistency, etc. I think many of them have copied the best construction features and bested the best designs of yore at a fraction of rare NOS pricing.
Wholly my opinion, of course :roll:
EDIT: I didn't realize until today, but this fella' is one and the same as New Quest Sound...a long time vendor over at Audiogon. Seems they have many more items on ebay (US) tho (the EH12AU7's I bought weren't listed on Audiogon) ...it might be too costly to list all of his wares on Audiogon these days:
http://www.newquestsound.com/
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I found Jim McShane's website, after searching my emails from last year.
Highly recommended guy, I really enjoyed his honest responses to my noob tube queries, and his packaging was just silly overkill...
http://pages.prodigy.net/jimmcshane/ (http://pages.prodigy.net/jimmcshane/)
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Purchased from Tube Depot last week. Very good!
ASTI and the Tube Store all very good.
Of course Jim McShane is highly recommended too.
D
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This past Saturday and Sunday, I ordered 11 tubes from the ....... www.thetubestore.com (http://www.thetubestore.com), in two seperate orders.
A matched pair of the new Tungsol 12AX7 (New Sensor Corportation, not NOS).
And a pair of NOS Tesla E88CC/Saber 6922 (1960s era).
A matched pair of Electro-Harmonix 12AX7.
And then 5 more of the new Tungsol 12AX7 (New Sensor Corportation, not NOS)
Monday morning I received an e-mail from Jon, telling me they have combined the two seprate orders into one, which eliminates an extra shipping charge and that they have upgraded the shipping to Next Business Day Express at no extra charge, due to the quantity (or size) of my order.
Now that's awesome customer service and a real nice gesture on their part!!!!
The tubes arrived last night via UPS. All eleven tubes are in beautiful, brand new condition. But more importantly.............they sound awesome in my gear!!! Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet!
thetubestore.com provided me with fantastic customer service, fast shipping, great sounding tubes and Jon is a great guy!
I plan on shopping there, again!!
Product: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Service/Price: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
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I'm surprised at myself for not previously mentioning the excellent services of the Tubeman, Ken Chaite.
A nice selection of new, NOS and even cryo tubes at reasonable prices. Shipping is fast and communication has been very good.
:beer: http://tubeman.com/ :drums:
Buddy/ SET Man...I think he has the grade of Ei 12AX7 you're looking for: http://tubeman.com/item299.htm
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Looks like Jim McShane and Brent Jesse have already been mentioned...both get :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: in my book for availability, decent pricing, and friendly service. Highly recommended!
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Also for newer tubes especially the Ei Elites if you are after these
try here >> http://www.tube-shop.com/usa/prod_eielites.asp
I have ordered from here because no one else had Ei 6DJ8EG in stock and they are very good, $ and shipping. They are in Great Britain.
D
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You know this is the great thing about this site. I was going to start a new thread and ask "Where should I buy tubes from" Good lord! It's all right here. You guys rock!!!
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I think I'm going to try the Winged "C"/S.E.D. EL34. I'm looking for something with all the warmth and detail of an EL 34, but with the extra power and dynamic transience of an e34l. Or maybe Electro-Harmonix 6CA7EH??
Any suggestions?
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From what I've read on various forums, including many tube diy'ers forums, some really like the Winged C EL34 for a bit more "body/warmth/whatever" and some like the JJ KT77s which are a bit higher power, more punchy and clear.
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I would like to mention Brian Cherry from DIYhifi supply. he carries a decent selection and has good relationships with the manufacturers he represents. Tube are tested. He is a good guy but his biggest problem is he is just too darn busy. He will answer your email but it takes a while sometimes. He is a sponsor over at AA and has a forum there where you can ask questions and get follow up. He is located in HK so take that into consideration
diyhifisupply.com (http://diyhifisupply.com).
I also noticed on Mapletree's site in his link section a tube vendor but I have no knowledge of the company. Perhaps the good Dr. could chime in?
I wonder if Mr. Hagerman also might have 2 cents to spare?
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I'll be a naysayer about the winged "c" tubes. Not that they were bad in any way, I just couldn't hear any difference between them and the Valve Arts that I had. Maybe the Valve Arts are better than expected, I don't know.
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hmm where did you get the valve arts from? how much?
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Isn't VA just rebranded Shuguang tubes? I don't think they cost anymore I just think they rebrand them. Anyway Shuguang supposedly makes good tubes. I just have read a ton about how good, consistent and reliable JJ (from Czech Rep, used to be Tesla) are.
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I agree Josh, I've been using JJ's on my amp for years now. What I don't like about them is that they are a little boring dynamically, at least on my system. I have both el34's and E34Ls. I'm thinking it may be something other than these tubes, I pretty much have to retube my whole system at this point, but I wanted to see what other options are out there. Honestly I can probably get a few more months out of the JJ's before they drive me nuts. Maybe I'll look at my preamp and output tubes on my amp before I change out my JJ's.
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I am thinking of trying JJ EL34L's in my 3205(Response Audio), and am leaning toward a cryoed quad from Cryoset. I have been using TungSol 6550's but these doesn't seem to keep the bias stable, I have been having to keep checking and adjusting the bias every few hours or so with some fuse blowing results on occasion. Pain in the ass. At least I think its the tubes not the amp, using the stock Sovtek tubes I haven't experienced the bias being erractic. The TungSols(when they behave) beat the Sovtek soundwise in this amp.
Will report back my experience with Cryoset.
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You may also be having a problem with your power. If you get fluctuation with your AC coming in your bias will go up and down as a result. Do you have or know somebody who has a multimeter?
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I've purchased from the Tubemonger with good success. You haven't seen packaging till you receive tubes from them. http://www.tubemonger.com/ They have some good finds in small signal tubes. Not the cheapest though.
Joel
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ugh! this site is so convoluted! I hate trying to buy from a disorganized list like this! http://pages.prodigy.net/jimmcshane/tubes.htm
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email him, he is good to deal with.
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Here's a recommendation for Cryoset, speedy service and excellent product. Ordered a matched quad of their JJ EL34L, and its rock solid after 1 week, no bias drifting after just 30hours. Wish they carried more tubes.
:thumb:
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If you are looking for NOS signal tubes, Befuddled knows where to go Tubemonger.com :smoke:
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I just found this on Art Audio's Web site.
Recommended tube vendors:
Kevin Deal, Upscale Audio, Tel. (909)-931-9684, e-mail
Advantage Tube Services, Tel. (561)-434-3799, e-mail
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I've been buying tubes from Roger Modjeski of Music Reference for years. Great quality/Great service and absolutely reliable and well tested tubes!
Here's a link to their tube store:
http://www.tubeaudiostore.com/
His Siemens EL-34's are great! I've used these for years and they are one of my favorite tubes.
He even has a clear top EL-34 from Svetlana listed on the website as well as Mullard EL-34's!
As a side note, I just received from him a custom built 6EM7 amplifier. It's 2 1/2 watts, but its an amazing sounding 2 1/2 watts!
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Kevin Deal, Upscale Audio, Tel. (909)-931-9684, e-mail
i'll second kevin.. although its been a while since I've interacted with him. he's knowledgeable about the tubes and the sounds they produce so he is a good person to talk with.
jim
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Your tube gear manufacturer is always a good source for tubes. I got tubes through Bill Baker at Response Audio and Gordon Rankin at Wavelength Audio. Both are upright gentlemen with outstanding service and great products. :thumb:
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Try Virgina tube audio: http://www.virginiatubeaudio.com/servlet/StoreFront . It's a small company and they have very good quality control, sending back what doesn't pass their tests. Mike Samara buys from them and recommends them, along with Jim McShane,who also inspects and tests every tube he gets in.
I have bought power tubes and/or dual triodes from both of them. With power tubes, today, it's especially important to get good quality control because power tube production from eastern europe tends to vary so much (no names) in quality.
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Based on a recommendation made somewhere in this thread, I placed an order with www.thetubestore.com (http://www.thetubestore.com). I was re-tubing my Stingray and wanted a matched octet of EL84's. Yes, I know that I will be biasing each tube individually, but it's nice to start at approximately the same place.
I ordered the 8 EL84EH's, 2 12AT7WC-EH and a pair of 6414's. I placed this order on 10/7, 10/8 was Thanksgiving in Canada (these folks are in Ontario) and I still had my tubes in hand by 10/12, using standard shipping ($7.95).
They arrived quickly and extremely well packed. Great service, no hassle; just what we all want :D. So, another happy customer.
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Anyone ever bought tubes from this ebay seller "Fantastic Tubes"???
He has a bunch of Telefunken 12AU7 smooth plates for sale at the lowest price I can find on the internet. But I noticed many of these TFK tubes have been on ebay for month and nobody wants to touch them. :scratch: :scratch:
see for example:
http://cgi.ebay.com/2-Matched-Telefunken-12AU7-ECC82-tubes-Smooth-Plates_W0QQitemZ280158967877QQihZ018QQcategoryZ3284QQtcZphotoQQcmdZViewItem
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Real 1960'S NOS Telefunken 12AU7's are gonna run $160-$180 for a matched pair. Always w/Diamond bottom. Later Telefunkens weren't made by Telefunken.
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That's what the seller claimed - all his TFK have Diamond bottom.. :scratch:
Real 1960'S NOS Telefunken 12AU7's are gonna run $160-$180 for a matched pair. Always w/Diamond bottom. Later Telefunkens weren't made by Telefunken.
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I sent you a PM
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I just went to your eBay link, new ones test 330-350. If it were me I'd spend the extra money and get new ones that I know what I'm getting, just my opinion.
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I have to throw in my endorsement of Cryoset (www.cryoset.com (http://www.cryoset.com)). Ron provides very prompt service, his packaging is impeccable, and best of all, his prices for cryogenically treated tubes are very reasonable. I don't know if cryo-treatment makes a big difference or not, but to get these new and tested tubes for the same price or less than untreated tubes is great. I have completely re-tubed my Onix SP3 integrated with Tung Sol 12AX7 Reissue's, Electro Harmonix 6922's, Electro Harmonix 12AU7's, and Tube Amp Doctor 6L6GC-STR power tubes. I'm sure NOS tubes are great, maybe better than new production tubes, but I like the availability and prices on new tubes. I've never had a problem with late shipments or quality of the tubes from Cryoset.
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As I was reading through this thread I found that I had already replied almost a year ago, but didn't give my preferences. So here goes:
Antique Electronics Supply/Tubesandmore.com - I don't know the name of the owner but they always have given me good service. When I ordered 6GM8s from them they shipped me a quad of BugleBoys. These are the same tube as a 6DJ8 except low voltage and BBs in 6DJ8 go for lots of money. Of course demand is the big factor and 6GM8s aren't in high demand.
TubeDepot - I've bought Sovtek 6B4Gs from them and they always arrive right on time. When one came with a broken internal part, they had a new one to me in no time.
Leeds - Richard Matthews runs this one here in Brooklyn, and I've never ordered from him, I just go to the warehouse and buy direct. I've bought orange globe 6DJ8s from him at $15, he also had bugle boys for $25 at the time. He grabs a bunch of tubes and matches them there for me on the tester and makes sure I get a good quad. If you ever need an oddball tube he's the guy to call. Leeds is a direct descendent of the last of the 'Radio Row' shops that were closed when the World Trade Center was built. By that time tubes were on the way out and most of them retired. Leeds moved to Brooklyn and survived and then Richard bought the guy out.
And one last 'vendor'. In a pinch most guitar shops have the common tubes you need. 12A?7, EL34, KT88, 6V6, 6L6, EL84, 5AR4, 5U4. Brands are spotty, prices aren't always good, but it is better than waiting for the brown truck when you don't have a spare.
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quickie review on a tube vendor that I got from this thread-John/The No-Longer Chair Guy.
http://stores.ebay.com/SaleRCS
I bought a quad of cryoed JJ EL84's for $40 plus $6 shipping. Arrived w/in 4 days from the left coast, well packed, no hassles. I put a pair in the Decware last night w/ Mullard GZ34 rectifier and a 7308 signal tube.
After about an hour, I figured I'm going to shitcan all the EL84's banging around in the spare drawer. These sound terrific. I like the JJ's even w/o the cryo but these sound extended enough to put to shame many NOS tubes.
Recommended to those of you who use EL84's.
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I have had great service and tubes from tubeworld
https://www.tubeworld.com/index_high.htm
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thanks Gordy! :thumb:
You beat me to it.
I've personally had very good luck with Jim McShane.
http://pages.prodigy.net/jimmcshane/ (http://pages.prodigy.net/jimmcshane/)
-Merrev
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Has ANYONE ordered from these guys? They offer a very big selection.
www.vacuumtubes.net
Thanks
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i cant believe it took til page 7 to get to my guy - i highly second the guys at tubeworld. great service, i'm not a tube expert so i don't know about pricing but he sure helped a complete novice. i was looking for quad 6L6's and was seeing prices of around $125 each, he
recommended me a NOS set to upgrade over stock for $27 each. :thumb:
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Another VERY satisfied Jim McShane customer here, I just finished re-tubbing my Rogue M-150's and couldn't have been happier with Jim's recomendations, attention to all things in detail, with prompt, well packaged service.
It's refreshing to know in a hobby with plenty of "Snake Oil" sales types that honesty, like cream, rises to the top !!
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Does anyone have any experience with these guys?
http://www.tubedepot.com/index.html
Very good service, lots of stock, extra services available... :thumb:
http://myworld.ebay.com/sandyphoto/
Maybe worth a look by someone more experienced than I...good service for my one purchase.
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http://www.tubesandmore.com/
received an email notification today and passing along.
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Another VERY satisfied Jim McShane customer here, I just finished re-tubbing my Rogue M-150's and couldn't have been happier with Jim's recomendations, attention to all things in detail, with prompt, well packaged service.
It's refreshing to know in a hobby with plenty of "Snake Oil" sales types that honesty, like cream, rises to the top !!
Jim is absolutely fantastic to deal. :thumb:
You are spot on in highlighting his great service and ability to match tubes to the buyer's desires.
George
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Very happy with my dealings with Brent Jessee, http://www.audiotubes.com/ (http://www.audiotubes.com/). He was very helpful and informative.
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Thanks to all the recommendations on this thread, I ended up buying some NOS tubes for my preamp and DAC. :duh:
I ended up placing an order with Jim McShane (http://pages.prodigy.net/jimmcshane/tubes.htm (http://pages.prodigy.net/jimmcshane/tubes.htm)) and another order with Brendan Biever of Tube World (https://www.tubeworld.com/ (https://www.tubeworld.com/)). Both were quick to respond to email and a pleasure to deal with. I received my tubes within three days and they were packaged very well. Good thing too, as my wife told me she heard the packages being delivered by our "mail lady" -- she literally dropped them on our front porch.
-Rob
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I have gotten perfect service + no questions asked replacement from www.virginatubeaudio.com (http://www.virginatubeaudio.com). I buy my JJ tubes from Bob at www.eurotubes.com (http://www.eurotubes.com). Never a problem. McShane , Tubemonger, and Jesse also have a 100% score in my book. Len, the 6SN7 specialist, also served me exceptionally well, but I believe he is out of the business. Too bad. He's a saint.
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Another dealer with very good prices and service, all Cryoed.
https://www.cryoset.com/catalog/index.php
D
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removed. :duh:
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Ian - you are not permitted to advertise outside of the designated areas. Please make an effort to follow our rules.
Thanks :thumb:
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My partner Rachel, has taken up in an interest in Tubes and the history of tubes and methods in China. Rachel will be selling them as she get's them, with cryo as an option, by Morry James. Quite cool to see her take this kind of interest and the perspective of it from a Chinese woman is very unique. Her first few posts are here:
http://grantfidelity.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=20&sid=5cd684b76f4d5bdd4daeb9a3f4f3113e
Please say Hi to her, she has a lot of insights into high-end audio from the business end of things to share.
Thanx,
Ian
I read on the forum about the chinese tubes....does that company have any 6SN7's? I've heard the "other" chinese tubes and have not been impressed compared to NOS tubes.
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Ian - you are not permitted to advertise outside of the designated areas. Please make an effort to follow our rules.
Thanks :thumb:
Hi JohnR, wasn't trying to advertise it, more of an info thing for those interested. But will avoid such posts here in the future. Maybe the Mod can move it to a better location.
Best,
Ian
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Jim McShane is da man, currently burning in some of the Genelex KT77 re-issues I purchased from him. :thumb:
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Ian - you are not permitted to advertise outside of the designated areas. Please make an effort to follow our rules.
Thanks :thumb:
JohnR,
I went to the Grant Fidelity Link that "igrant" posted and saw nothing at all that I could, even with a huge leap of imagination, construe as advertising. Am I so thick that someone pulled one on me and I don't realize it? Must be, as what I read was informational and nothing else, but there are some here that are awfully quick to jump on something with the least provocation of any forum I've seen.
Igrant,
When your pardner, Rachel, posts about China could she include the English version or name of the province or city she's referring to? It took a while to realize that Nanjing was what I've always heard referred to as Nanking (as in "The Rape of Nanking" by Iris Chang). I admit that a lot of westernized pronunciations and spellings are wide of the mark, but it would help us old fogeys that are set in our ways :green:
BTW: I found the info on the history of the Chinese tube industry to be "very" informative. Thank you.
Best Regards,
TerryO
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Hi TerryO,
According to Rachel the word or pronunciation 'king' does not show up in the Chinese language, she has never heard of Nanking :) Nanjing it is and that is how it is pronounced.
The only word I know is the Chinese word pijiu (peejo). And that would be beer of course. I can hear the jokes know, but some of it is great beer and at about 50 cents a pint a lot of fun.
Cheers,
Ian
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JohnR,
I went to the Grant Fidelity Link that "igrant" posted and saw nothing at all that I could, even with a huge leap of imagination, construe as advertising. Am I so thick that someone pulled one on me and I don't realize it? Must be, as what I read was informational and nothing else, but there are some here that are awfully quick to jump on something with the least provocation of any forum I've seen.
I will leave you to make your own assessments of your intellectual capacity, but whatever your conclusion, the fact is that there are rules that make the forum wheels turn, whether you like it or not.
Hi JohnR, wasn't trying to advertise it, more of an info thing for those interested. But will avoid such posts here in the future. Maybe the Mod can move it to a better location.
Ian, I don't intend to play word games with you - "informing" is no different from advertising, depending on who is saying it. Please review our guidelines again if you're unclear on what exactly is expected where.
Thanks...
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First time buyer at TubeDepot.com...color me quite impressed :thumb:
First off, he (Joe) answered the phone at 5PM. When he did, he was crisp, professional and to the point. The price of the JJ ECC81/12AT7's bought were very good and he offers a range of testing extras (matched quad adds $2.00 each tube, and low noise and microphonics adds $4 a piece).
http://site.tubedepot.com/preamp_options.html
Shipping is a reasonable $3.95 and it was packaged in overkill packaging.
Confirmation of order was sent via email the day after and it got here (from Memphic, TN) in only 3 days.
A fine performance I think...one that I will probably reward with future tube orders :wink:
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Parts connexion is good vendor also ,i often buying tubes from them,they have very good service & their tubes are in excellent condition even for used tubes ,their NOS are very good also ,recommended vendor :thumb:
cheers
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hi
i want to recommend another tube seller: Bill Thomas
he offered tubes in the market section of this forum AudioCircle http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=59123.0 for instance
what made him special for me is next to his extraordinary kind
attitude and friendly email exchanges, is his going beyond duty with a faulty 12ax7
i ordered a pair of matched black plated RCA 12ax7 from the 50's
and one was faulty. It gave a huge humm that almost stopped my heart ( a matter of speaking ; )
i offered to send both back and wait for a matched replacements or alternatives.
this was his respond:
"Dear Kyrill,
That is TERRIBLE news. It sounds like one of them didn't survive the trip. I ALWAYS check EVERY tube in an amplifier before shipping. That is the final test. Before that, I ALWAYS test the tubes in a Calibrated Hickok tube tester. This one has apparently developed a heater to cathode short. Don't bother returning it to me. I will get a replacement out to you IMMEDIATELY. I will operate it in an amplifier for a few HOURS to make CERTAIN it leaves here in good condition. ....
But again, don't bother returning the two tubes. I will send an additional matched pair to you. I am sure you will be able to find someone who will be able to use the single black-plate. Don't you think so?
Again, my SINCEREST apologies for the problem.
Sincerely,
Bill Thomas"
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I order my tubes from http://www.svvintageamps.com/about.php. The owner Scott is a great guy to deal with. I order a TAD, it was delivered but has a defect in it. I changed it to Wing C 6L6, without questions after 3 months of holding it as I was going to California where he resides. Changed it without a hitch and the Winged C is humming in my amp.
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Did anyone ever purchase tubes from this guy Boyle (forgot first name) who's associated somehow with the Chimera Labs in Texas. I one time ordered a couple of RCA tubes from him. Initially the guy seems very very nice (early transactions), but that time I didn't hear from him a while, then he said he had family business to take care of..... I never got my tubes (I paid of course). Subsequent communications with him went dead.
If he had family trouble, that's understandable. But.... I suspected something else. If anyone knows this person and shed some light on him, much appreciated. The money was not a big sum ($20, $30 I think), just that he behaved strangely, so I wonder if anyone else might have dealt with him.
Thanks. :duh:
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Has anyone bought from "Tubes_of_the_week" on Agon?
He's close by.
Thanks
-Mike
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Jim Mcshane is the best :thumb:
I also like Doctercilantro ..didn't buy tubes yet from him but will soon
tube depot and Radio Electric supply are good as well
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deleted
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I look for vintage equipment collectors on the net (not Ebay) and find out if they have used tubes (small triode signal tubes and rectifiers) for sale. Many do. I prefer to buy used tubes at this point, because I know what i am getting and prices are lower. You have to hunt around.
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I've had great experience with these vendors recently:
SND Tubes -- http://www.vacuumtubes.com/
Radio Electric Supply -- http://www.vacuumtubes.net/
ESRC Tubes - http://www.esrcvacuumtubes.com/
Not so great experience with AES lately.
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Anybody have experience with these tube vendors?
Fair Radio Sales - https://www.fairradio.com/ (https://www.fairradio.com/)
AYDN - http://www.aydn.com/ (http://www.aydn.com/)
BOI AudioWorks - http://www.boiaudioworks.com/index.php (http://www.boiaudioworks.com/index.php)
HiFiTubes - http://www.hifitubes.org/ (http://www.hifitubes.org/)
Pacific Valve - http://www.pacificvalve.us/index.html (http://www.pacificvalve.us/index.html)
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Fair radio is suppose to be a great vendor. Never tried any of the others.
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if you want to try nos tubes get with paul_lindemann on audiogon
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if you want to try nos tubes get with paul_lindemann on audiogon
Paul is a pleasure to deal with,,such a great attitude.
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Recently bought from Doug's Tubes - www.dougstubes.com. Exceptionally fast service, they shipped within 24 hours and I had them 2 days later via priority mail, which was free except for $2.15 insurance. They are mostly for guitar players but they had was I was looking for (Penta KT88SC solid plate). :thumb: :thumb:
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Thanks Mike. I have been slack on getting the site up, and baby #2 is on the way (a girl this time!), so now I have serious impetus to get stuff listed. Look in the next month and we should have something working.
Pricing aside:
I have had great trading/buying experiences with Paul Lindemann who can be found on Audiogon (GREAT pricing).
Tube Depot has good stuff.
Radio Electric Supply - Roy & Dale are good folks.
Upscale - Kevin is an honest guy and has really nice tubes.
Jim McShane - one of the best!
best,
DC
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Jim McShane. My only tube purchasing experiences have been with Jim. His prices are comparable with other vendors' lowest prices. He is very knowledgeable, and his responsiveness is extraordinary.
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I don't know if this is the right place to do this, but I am looking for a pair of Sylvania GB5687 gold pin tubes for my Modwright SWL9.0SE, I do not care if they are used, will discuss other tubes that might work well in this piece
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Lets keep an eye out for each other for companies lagging behind of going belly-up. There are a few of them out there.
I'm having a response problem and slow service with Triode in Illinois.
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Hi Wierdo,
Is Triode the full name of the company? If so I'm not familiar with them. Or did you mean Triode Electronics, Inc? I notice the home page states they have moved to St. Charles but the info page still has the Chicago address and phone numbers so possibly they are still in the transition stage and as such are having a hard time maintaining a high level of communications and service.
My point is if you are going to post about a vendor that you are having difficulty with be clear as to the name and be courteous and professional. It is easy to cross the line into "Dirty Laundry" and then the post will be deleted. This serves no one.
Thanks,
Jake
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I've heard Jim McShane's name too many times to not check him out.
Does anyone have a link? Simply typing his name on Google isn't much help, too many hits.
Bob
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Jim McShane (http://pages.prodigy.net/jimmcshane/tubes.htm)
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I've been very happy with:
www.partsconnexion.com
www.thetubestore.com
www.parts-express.com
The tube store went above and beyond the call when I found some bum Winged Cs in the batch.
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I just ordered an RCA NOS 12ax7 from www.hifiaudiotubes.com. Went well. They shipped it out the next day and it was packaged well enough to re-enter the Earth's atmosphere. Their prices seem good. No pictures is a downside but their info says they will send you a picture of any tube you ask for. I just liked how they had their inventory listed, by socket type, brand, and listing how many NOS and Used they had currently in stock. I would order from them again, although they call you to confirm your order after you place it if you place it online (I did). The guy I spoke to said the easiest way is to just give them a call with your order. They called me within 20 minutes with my tube on the tester which I thought was a nice touch.
The only other site I have dealt with was www.tubedepot.com which also went smoothly but I don't really like having to ask if they have a specific brand or not. They got the shipment out timely and overall it was a fine experience. I am a frequent browser of www.vacuumtubes.net but have never ordered from them, have heard through the grapevine (other forums) that they have great customer service too.
Both went smoothly but I would give the edge to www.hifiaudiotubes.com.
Hope this helps somebody.
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Hi all
Brendan Bivier of tubeworld is great seller, comunicative, fast very good
Service
:thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Price :duh: :duh: :duh:
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I've had good luck with Cryoset. Very fast service.
http://www.cryoset.com/catalog/index.php?osCsid=33bef9c01564b593984965e477bc1e73
-Roy
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About a month ago, I purchased a pair of NOS Philips Miniwatt Dario GZ32 (5V4) rectifier tubes (see http://www.upscaleaudio.com/Philips-Miniwatt-GZ325V4_p_80.html (http://www.upscaleaudio.com/Philips-Miniwatt-GZ325V4_p_80.html) for my SET amps from Upscale Audio in California. They were competively priced with a 90 day warranty.
After a few hours (10 or so), one of the tubes started to act up, became noisy & appeared to be brightly lit (possible internal short). After contacting Upscale Audio & being advised by them via email, I sent back the tube & a new replacement one arrived in perfect order about a week later.
The packing, communication & service provided by Upscale Audio was a very pleasant experience.
Thought I'd share a good tube buying experience since there's a lot a nightmarish ones out there...
Pete
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Thanks for adding, Pete. Haven't tried any of Kevin's tubes but sure have drooled over them on more than one occasion.
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About a month ago, I purchased a pair of NOS Philips Miniwatt Dario GZ32 (5V4) rectifier tubes (see http://www.upscaleaudio.com/Philips-Miniwatt-GZ325V4_p_80.html (http://www.upscaleaudio.com/Philips-Miniwatt-GZ325V4_p_80.html) for my SET amps from Upscale Audio in California. They were competively priced with a 90 day warranty.
After a few hours (10 or so), one of the tubes started to act up, became noisy & appeared to be brightly lit (possible internal short). After contacting Upscale Audio & being advised by them via email, I sent back the tube & a new replacement one arrived in perfect order about a week later.
The packing, communication & service provided by Upscale Audio was a very pleasant experience.
Thought I'd share a good tube buying experience since there's a lot a nightmarish ones out there...
Pete
I agree with the Upscale endorsement. I've found tubes slightly cheaper here and there (but not dramatically so) but always go back to Kevin because of outstanding customer service (for both tubes and gear). If good service is important to you (and with tubes you are more likely to need it than with SS) then Upscale Audio is an excellent choice.
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Another endorsement here for Brent Jessee (audiotubes.com). Very helpful and responsive.
:D
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I had a very good experience with "Mask" on this site.
Shipping from Bulgaria took a bit but communication was very good throughout.
And great prices (AFAIK)
-Mike
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Kevin Deal at Upscale Audio:
A straight shooter and a hoot to chat with on the phone.
My Mullards arrived fast and perfectly packed.
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I just placed and received and order from:
BOI AudioWorks
P.O. Box 26394
San Diego, CA 92196-0394
Tel 858-693-3580
Fax 858-693-7999
info@boiaudioworks.com
http://www.boiaudioworks.com/
I orderd a complete set of spares for my AVA Ultravalve amp.
A matched Quad set of EH 6CA7's $75.00
A pair of signal tubes 6GH8A's GE $7.50
A Sovtek 5AR4 Rectifier. $17.50
Shipped USPS. Took 5 days to get from CA to North Carolina.
Well Packed.
All tubes have test values on a sticker on each tube.
From their FAQ:
We test tubes for filament outage, shorts, emission and gas. All tubes are also measured for their mutual conductance, and the measured values are written down on the box. This is the actual conductance value, rather than some percentage value on the meter. We do test for excessive microphonics on tubes that are normally used in audio equipment. Power tubes are also tested for plate current and conductance at high plate voltages. We use several calibrated tube testers, including an FAA standard equipment.
I would do business with them again.
Alex
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Here's another thumbs up to the folks at BOI Audio Works.
I recently placed an order for a set of EL34's and 12AX7's. Everything seemed cool until I got my package a week after the order. Sure enough, I was sent the wrong set of EL34's. I immediately notified them of the error via e-mail. I was quite surprised by how quickly they responded to it (especially considering that it must have been around 7 AM west coast time). The very next day, the correct set of tubes were on their way to my abode, along with a return shipping label for the other tubes. I got everything in today, and its all working quite well.
Even though they made an error with my initial order, I am very pleased with how they handled the situation. It's easy to be happy with a business when things go as they should. However, what separates the good business from the bad is how it handles things when an error is made. I'd not hesitate to do business with em' again. :D
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Sorry folks, had to bin rivieraranch's post about a bad deal on eBay. Violation of our "No Dirty Laundry" rule.
Rule:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=37305.0 (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=37305.0)
Post:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=87850.0 (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=87850.0)
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Bought some 6SN7GT RCA - gray glass and 6SL7GT / VT-229 RCA tubes from TC Tubes. Shipping was fast and tubes appear to be in good condition. My first NOS purchase and they sound great.
http://tctubes.com/ (http://tctubes.com/)
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+1 - "tctubes" in St. Paul, MN. Received 4 matched Genalex EL84
for the Dodd battery-powered amp. Great price and speedy delivery.
The Russian Genalex replaced the stock JJ EL84 in the Dodd. To these ears
the re-issues are more refined while preserving the already stellar dynamics
of the mighty "little" Dodd.
Unfortunately, tctubes does not carry the Genalex
Gold Lion 6922, which I hope to hear in Gary's battery powered buffer.
I am waiting on a matched pair from BnB tubes,
http://stores.ebay.com/BNB-TUBES-INC?_rdc=1 (http://stores.ebay.com/BNB-TUBES-INC?_rdc=1)
in Champlain, NY.
el-cee
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Bill (Morningstar Audio) and I have just had good experience with Ebay seller "Hanshare"
I don't think Bill'll mind me speaking for him - he was pretty vocal about his positive experience.
Pr of TJ Full Music 12AX7s, $70 shipped no probs for me.
-Mike
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I forgot to mention www.partsconnexion.com up in Canada.
Real good DIY selection plus tubes and Sonic Frontiers stuff.
Great service from them, always.
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Great info thanks guys!
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the two best vendors I have dealt with are Upscale Audio and Jim McShane. Both those guys match tubes properly always test before sending out and are first class guys who care. I would stay away from the tube depot. I have had tubes sent that were bent pins and not tested or matched and worse yet were dead when they got here. When you buy from Jim or Kevin you pay a little more but you get quality tubes always.
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Thanks for the TCtubes recommendation. I'll be ordering from them when the time comes. I love local! I really want to get some Gold Lion kt77 or Tung Sol el34b.
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I've been on a tear recently & ordered tubes from a # of difft vendors & ebay vendors. Thus far every transaction has been perfect.
Ebay: Hanshare (mentioned above for TJ 6SN7), we-52 (for 5U4 rectifiers), Vintage Amp Parts
and most anyone with 100% feedback & some type of tube tester ($10 tubes mainly). Extremely fast shipping from the US based vendors.
Vendors: Tube Depot & TC Tubes
The historical info at tubeworld.com is helpful.
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Enormous Lot of Tubes
Just see it on other site, lot of 320,000 tubes for $1,025 on Ebay:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ENORMOUS-LOT-OF-320-000-NOS-AUDIO-XMIT-RADIO-VACUUM-TUBES-/300791046525?pt=Vintage_Electronics_R2&hash=item46088b217d
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Very interesting, but I don't understand your comment on the price. This lot is waaaaaaaaaaaaaay out of my league! There are over 3 full days left on the auction and there's no guarantee that it will reach the reserve. Multiply your figure by a hundred and you'll still fall short. Just consider the 171,000 NOS tubes. If they sold (which would probably take a few years :lol:)at an average net of $20, that would add up to a bit over $3.4M. This auction is going to make eBay (or whichever auction site handles the sale) quite a bundle.
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I surprised as there was a new bid that up the price to 2,082... :duh:
These tubes are useful only to a tube broker or a tube expert with a good tube tester, which may be the case.
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Depending on the reserve, could a lucrative opportunity for someone with lots of space to store them and sell them.
Jim
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And alot of time to sell all these tubes and get his money back;
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IMHO, if you are going to have tubed equipment, you would be well served to buy a tube testing device. I have bought tubes from a few different sources. It's easy to buy new old stock on-line that "passes," but only marginally.
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Hello, I have been a tube guy for the last 15 years and I have had really good luck buying all my NOS tubes from tubemonger.com. Check them out, they seem to have what all everyone is looking for and their service is great. If you have a tube from them and it went bad a year or two after you purchase the tube, they will replace the tube at their cost no questions ask. David Picarsic Good Day!
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Brent Jessee is my guy.
I bought a pair of 6SN7 Bad Boys from him.
One went bad a full year later and he volunteered to send me another.
I pointed out to him that I was way past the warranty period and had in excess of 1000 hrs on them.
He still sent me a new one.
Needless to say I was impressed.
He has a good selection of NOS and what seems to be good competitive prices.
Check him out.
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i buy my tubes from music reference/ ram labs. no one tests or matches tubes better than roger as far as i am concerned. give him a try.
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I know they've been mentioned here before but here's another :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: for TC Tubes (http://www.tctubes.com).
All their tubes are tested on the Amplitrex AT1000 tester, description and test scores clearly labeled on the boxes, They were very good to deal with, prompt in responding to emails , and very quick to ship. Tubes arrived very well packaged
Best of all, the tubes sound great, so much so, I ordered a 2nd pair to keep on hand :)
-jay
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I know they've been mentioned here before but here's another :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: for TC Tubes (http://www.tctubes.com).
All their tubes are tested on the Amplitrex AT1000 tester, description and test scores clearly labeled on the boxes, They were very good to deal with, prompt in responding to emails , and very quick to ship. Tubes arrived very well packaged
Best of all, the tubes sound great, so much so, I ordered a 2nd pair to keep on hand :)
-jay
Hi Captainhemo (Jay) and all Audio Circle members.
I bought from tc tubes some NOS tubes,
satisfied with their service, however,
my tubes are at my wife's nephew's house in Seattle
and waiting for a lift from a Vietnamese coming this way.
I am anxious to see (Hear) if the NOS sound better than what I have now (EH, Ruby, Sovtek)
Guy 13
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I can also vouch for TC Tube's service. I've used them for months now. They've been testing all my NOS tubes, batch by batch, and I've been very happy with their standards and turnaround time. I've even sent them some singles in order to find matches from within their stocks. They only charged me the normal $2 to properly test my tube. No additional fees. I also contacted another vendor, mentioned in this thread many times, but he wanted an additional $12 per tube to find a match. I was to be charged for the testing of his own tubes to find a match. This didn't seem right to me as the testing on the vendor's end should be included in the price of the tube, IMO. And I also did not feel this vendor's testing devices were as good as TC's Amplitrex...and the tubes themselves were already more expensive than TC's prices.
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Jim McShane, great guy, great products.
Hi mcgsxr and all Audio Circle members.
I agree with you, Jim is a great guy, he even knows a few words of French,
unfortunately, I cannot do business with him because of a money transfer problem.
Too bad.
Guy 13
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I can also vouch for TC Tube's service. I've used them for months now. They've been testing all my NOS tubes, batch by batch, and I've been very happy with their standards and turnaround time. I've even sent them some singles in order to find matches from within their stocks. They only charged me the normal $2 to properly test my tube. No additional fees. I also contacted another vendor, mentioned in this thread many times, but he wanted an additional $12 per tube to find a match. I was to be charged for the testing of his own tubes to find a match. This didn't seem right to me as the testing on the vendor's end should be included in the price of the tube, IMO. And I also did not feel this vendor's testing devices were as good as TC's Amplitrex...and the tubes themselves were already more expensive than TC's prices.
Hi Ericus Rex and all Audio Circle members.
For the Audio Circle members that had not being following my misadvanture with some Toshiba tubes
bought from TC Tubes, here it is.
I bought from TC Tubes the following tubes:
Retheon 6080
Sylvania 12Au7, 12AX7, 6922
Sovtek 5AR4
and a pair of 6BQ5 Toshiba.
The Toshiba might not be defective as such,
but they are 50% less efficient than my Electro Harmonix
and they are very dull sounding, no mids and highs.
Mrs. Chelsea as offer me to exchange them for a pair of Genalex Gold Lion N709/EL84
at no extra charge and she will not wait for me to return the Toshiba,
because I can only return them in June via a relative going back to the USA.
That's what I call SUPER customer service.
I would recommend without any hesitation TC Tubes.
Guy 13
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Matsushita E88CC 6922 Japan - MINT NOS NIB Mullard Tooling - (Matched Pairs/Quads/Singles)
Any you chaps know where I can replace 4 of these? Thank you.
-
Matsushita E88CC 6922 Japan - MINT NOS NIB Mullard Tooling - (Matched Pairs/Quads/Singles)
Any you chaps know where I can replace 4 of these? Thank you.
Brent Jessie has the Matsushita6DJ8's (Mullard tooling) on his 6DJ8/6922 page (http://www.audiotubes.com/6dj8.htm) but I didn't see the 6922's... might want to try giving him a call. or even shoot him an email
-jay
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Hey Cap'n, thank you.
-
I need two 6922/6DJ8 tubes that are closely matched by the gain that they provide.
What test do I need to ask for when ordering tubes that provide closely matched gain?
My preamp has 8 tubes. If the two tubes that are used in the gain positions are not matched equally one channel ends up being louder than the other.
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Wirenut,
Ask just exactly that specific question when you contact tube vendors. The reputable ones won't bat an eye at your request.
-
As a rule I always buy matched power and preamp tubes.
-
Wirenut,
Parts-Connexion can't help you out?
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Wirenut, iirc, Roger Modjeski consideres 'matched' for preamp tubes to mean matched for voltage gain (what your requesting) while power tubes are matched for Gm. So your request is sensible, according to RAM, but nearly all vendors match preamp tubes for Gm/Ip only. If a vendor can't match for voltage gain get in touch with Roger.
http://www.tubeaudiostore.com/tubes.html
His NOS supply is limited but his pricing on those is very good. Looks like the only real NOS 6922 is the Amperex 7308 gold pin at the bottom of the page for only $50 each!
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Wirenut,
Parts-Connexion can't help you out?
Hi Steve,
I'm sure Parts Connexion could help me out. Just looking for a vender in the US to try. Think I'll try Roger Modjeski this time.
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Attention 6C33 fans, Anton just starting offer Svetlanas again:
http://www.gstube.com/catalog/?key=6C33&bl=&mmm=0&aaa=0&valuta=978
The bad news are there is just ONE piece avaliable...
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It appears that Vintage Tube Services is no longer available as the domain name is up for grabs. Hope all is well with Andy, he would be a great loss to us tube lovers.
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Hey Folks,
does anyone have a pair of Tung-sol 5687s ...preferably 50's vintage that they are willing to part with?
I have been on some of the vendors sites but thought I'd inquire here....
Thanks,
Paul
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It appears that Vintage Tube Services is no longer available as the domain name is up for grabs. Hope all is well with Andy, he would be a great loss to us tube lovers.
The website is accessible and Andy called me last week with some news on tubes.
So he is still in the biz from what I see.
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This is good news! Thanks, G E.
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Ok, thought I'd pass this along but I have no affiliation with this guy, just came across him on ebay He has some good prices on what would appear to be NOS Mullard tubes, money back guarentee
http://www.ebay.com/sch/squareheadtubes/m.html?item=130295388092&ssPageName=ADME%3AX%3ARTQ%3AUS%3A1123&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562
He also sells from :
www.mullardtubes.com ( it was in the info at the bottom of the invoice I got from him)
I picked up a pair of the CV4024's as he has them at a good prce. They appear from the pics to be identical to the pair I got from Jim McShane abou a year ago
He does have exellent feedback on ebay. Located up here in Canada, $10 shipping to Canada/US and $19 everywhere else I believe
If you are into Cryo'ing your tubes, he'll do that free of charge, at least it was an option on the CV4024's which declined
The CV4024's arrived today sleeved, wrapped and in the military boxes but without pin protectors...
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=103570)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=103571)
-jay
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I am looking for 1 ST shaped Western Electric 101D. Have called all the tube vendors I can find. Anyone have any off the beaten path leads? I will pay a fair price for the tube, but need to find it.
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How about a shout for Roger Modjeski @ tubeaudiostore.com Nobody tests tubes to the degree he does. And finding used RAM tubes is about impossible.
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Here's another thumbs up for Brent Jesse. I found him very helpful in navigating figuring out what kind of 6SN7s to choose for my AtmaSpheres.
Also, I had a great experience with this EBay seller in Ukraine. Given what we hear about this part of the world I was delighted to receive 25 6AS7Gs/6N5S/ECC230 in excellent condition a full month before the projected delivery date.
Ranutek EBay Store (http://stores.ebay.com/ranutek/)
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I don't want to violate the 'no dirty laundry' policy, but anyone considering doing business with Jac Music is welcome to pm me for the almost laughable (it would be more laughable if I wasn't out over $500 with no tubes :icon_frown:) ridiculously bad experience I'm now in the middle of with Jac.
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Wow sorry to hear about your bad experience. That sucks.
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I could not even get to buy from them because the answers by email were very rough.
But his site is very informative.
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Message removed.
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I want to update my earlier post re my experience with JAC Music. Jac finally came through and shipped me the tubes I had purchased, but because of his mistake in sending the incorrect tubes the first time, the time from purchase until my receipt of the correct tubes took many, many weeks and some pretty serious conversations before I received the tubes....
So, in hindsight, rather than trying to save a few bucks, in the future any EML tubes I purchase will be from George Lenz (TubesUSA), who I've found to be great, helpful and responsive!
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I've been buying new and NOS tubes for about fifteen years from almost all the vendors previously mentioned and overall my experiences have been good with one exception; Upscale Audio.
I bought six gold grade Matsushita 7DJ8 tubes from Upscale, graded A for both noise and microphonics for my Herron VTSP-3A line stage. Five out of the six were noisy and one was so microphonic that speaking at normal levels would set it off. The day after I received them I contacted Upscale using their website messaging system (the unanswered message is still there) requesting an exchange or possible upgrade to platinum grade if those would be quieter. I received no response. Two days later I emailed them with the same request. No reply. I then requested a RA so I could return them for a refund. No reply. A week later I filed a dispute with Visa. Upscale is fighting it.
I've heard similar stories. There are many good tube vendors out there so I would recommend any others before considering Upscale Audio. In addition, I think their tube descriptions and superior testing claims are generally exaggerated.
I have been lucky w/ Upscale, but I have also purchased other components from (Cary SLi-80, Prima Luna mono blocs) so maybe that carries some weight? I do think his prices are too expensive.
Depending your tube, I have had reasonable success on Ebay. I have never purchased any Tele's from the site (I have heard their are often counterfeited), but did score a quad of Mullard 6922's at a very reasonable price.
I have several tube vendors that I follow and check their sites if I am in the mood for purchasing.
The Mullards I purchased ran me around $250 for the set.
Good luck -
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Nice score on the Mullards.
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I agree, he charges way to much (got to pay for all those full page, color magazine ads somehow), so I buy my gear elsewhere.
Nice score on the Mullards.
North American tube brokers always are bullish(and boutique prices) to send tubes to my country, so I buy direct from Russia, almost all vendors are reliable.
These brokers also buy in Russia and his alleged selecting process are non existent or poor.
So why pay more!
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North American tube brokers always are bullish(and boutique prices) to send tubes to my country, so I buy direct from Russia, almost all vendors are reliable.
These brokers also buy in Russia and his alleged selecting process are non existent or poor.
So why pay more!
How's about a vendor and address?? Thanks. How do you pay?
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How's about a vendor and address?? Thanks. How do you pay?
My favor is GStubes, very reliable seller, Paypal.
http://www.gstube.com/catalog/?key=6C33&bl=&mmm=0&aaa=0&valuta=978
They are in vacancy till 15JAN, email reply may not be same day.
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Used this other shop once and very friendly also:
http://www.sovtube.com/
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Hi All,
Don't mean to interrupt the flow of the conversation. I just replaced the tubes in my Primaluna preamp with tubes from Vintage Tube Services (Andy) of Rockford, MI. They are only in the unit for a couple of days now but the music is back in a very pleasing way. More clarity, dynamics, and substance. Highs are definitely more extended. I have to say that I was stopped in my tracks several times by the sound change. Big smiles and Oh my's! Brushes on the drum head hissing sound like brushes on the drum head. Andy was very kind, patient, and knowledgeable during our conversations. He recommended RCA 12AU7's. I purchased a matched set of four. Terrific and thanks to Andy!
Best Regards,
Blu99Zoomer
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Everybody praise VTS, thanks for inform.
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Andy is tops. Very colorful conversationalist. I'd like to hear him and Frank Van Alstine in the same room.
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I just ordered a set of tubes from Andy. Any idea what the turn around time is for him?
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Seems important enough that this thread should be kept up to date with more current posts. Only five posts since Jan 2016.
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Sorry, MiamiBoy, for not seeing this sooner. If you have perused our list of vendors and know of any changes that should be made please let us know who to add or delete.
Sadly I have one to delete: CryoSet Tubes as most of you know has closed its doors. But I stumbled across a vendor I have not seen before and am wondering if anyone has experience with http://www.tube-sale.com/ (http://www.tube-sale.com/)? If so any experience with the "Golden Voice brand of tubes (also never heard of them before)?
Caveat emptor, I just noticed this site is not secure.
Thanks all,
JakeJ
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I talked to Andy Bowman this summer so my guess is he is still around
I bought 8 ancient Mullards from Brent Jesse this fall. Andy is my go to tube vendor but he did not have what I needed
Happy to report a fantastic transaction with Brent.
12au7 and 12ax7 tubes for my mew Hagerman Trumpet phono preamp.
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vivatubes.com has some nice B-level NOS tubes (RFT, Tungsram etc). Prices are good and sales are frequent! They do a lot on eBay too. Current production tubes are usually the best prices you'll see for brand new.
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Are we allowed to recommend eBay vendors? This guy only sells brand new stock fresh from the case. Or at least, that has been my experience with a number of sleeves I have purchased from him.
http://www.ebaystores.com/K5SVC
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Sometimes you get better deals on European valves by using a European supplier.
This is one of the best:
(https://www.watfordvalves.com)
I've ordered from these guys on multiple occasions.
Mullard CV4024's, Philips/EI EL84's, Winged 'C' 6L6GC's, etc. etc.
Always been 100% happy with the packaging, tubes, etc.
Compare:
(https://www.watfordvalves.com/product_detail.asp?id=630)
or even the higher-grade:
(https://www.watfordvalves.com/product_detail.asp?id=4112)
vs, for example:
(http://www.mullardtubes.com/Mullard-ECC81-12AT7-CV4024/?id=0&Productid=152)
Just saying.
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Absolutely! A good source is not to passed by, there are many on eBay.
The site I posted earlier uses eBay too, that's how I found them.
https://www.ebay.com/str/shuguangvalve (https://www.ebay.com/str/shuguangvalve)
And thanks Nidri17 for the link to Watford Valves.
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Sometimes you meet a seller on eBay that is 100% honest, and really knows their product.
I recently bought some pristine GE 6072 NOS NIB tubes for my Shindo Giscours.
The product was advertised as a matched pair, and I received exactly what was advertised.....tested perfectly.
The seller shipped within hours, communicated well, and his price was a little below many others.
I have "0" financial interest in this sellers company.
I just wanted to share a story about an honest seller who loves this business.
He has 100% feedback on eBay, with over 3,800 transactions.
The company is Edwards Audio Tubes, and the seller goes by the name Christopher2159.
Just thought I'd share with the audiophile community here.
Happy listening.
Labpro
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Thanks for inform, seems a useful seller.
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I'm looking for a pair of 6GM8s for the Earmax (Brocksieper) OTL headphone amp (the original version not the pro). Vintage Tube Services does have some but they're way beyond my budget. Since they're no longer made I assume all remaining stock must be NOS. Finding a reliable supplier is a challenge. I bought a pair on Ebay that turned out to be noisy.
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These vendors are reliable and honest and have the tube for less, but perhaps not as thoroughly tested.
https://www.thetubestore.com/6gm8-ecc86 (https://www.thetubestore.com/6gm8-ecc86)
https://www.tubedepot.com/products/6gm8-ecc86 (https://www.tubedepot.com/products/6gm8-ecc86)
I would call these vendors before purchasing to find out more particulars about the tubes they offer. I have puchased from both of these vendors and had no issues with the tubes I bought. Most are still in service.
GLWYS,
Jake
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One lesson I learned recently that I want to share is to look to see if a tube vendor shares a physical mailing address on their website before ordering and if they do look it up in Google Maps to get a better idea of what is behind the slick web site. If they don't, be aware that you are likely dealing with a residential based business. Nothing wrong with that if from a known or recommended tube vendor but if ordering for the first time it is a clue as to what is behind the slick web site.
I recently ordered some tubes from a US based tube vendor's web site that had mission statements, policy verbiage, return policy, slick pictures and a lot of "we" words like they were a larger business. Slick web site...no address shown anywhere. Two of the tubes were bad in a way that I doubt they were good when shipped. When they sent me a return address and I looked it up on Google maps the street view showed a small house with a large garage. This vendor is not mentioned anywhere in this thread. I don't want to call them out as I am currently working toward a resolution via the PayPal resolution process with the "President" of this "company". He is also the only one that answers the phone, likely a cell phone.
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Excellent point, Miamiboy. Thanks for sharing this in a non-dirty laundry manner.
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Address and a whare house is not suffice, last time I lost money on tubes was a old vendor and a well made site with full address, unfortunately he dont tested the tubes or send me his rejected stock.
Warranty and full test as Upscale or VTS are important.
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And to add another point to my lesson learned .... if a deal seems too good to be true it probably isn't. I was trying to buy two nos tubes and I purchased them from the vendor because they were almost half the price that everyone else was asking for the tubes. The two tubes were DOA. Neither tube produced any sound. The vendor said "their policy is to only give a credit" but he would give me a refund if I help him file an insurance claim, which I did. Then he said I needed to return both bad tubes at my expense, fully insured. That is when I decided it was best to open the issue with PayPal and not deal direct with the vendor. Still waiting for it to work through the PayPal resolution process.
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I have used a number of tube vendors over the years but would agree with many that Andy with Vintage Tube Services is fantastic. His knowledge is exhaustive and he is a genuine pleasure when talking on the phone (imagine that, you actually get to talk to the business owner directly when you call!). You might find some tubes cheaper on sites like ebay but you never know what you are getting. Prices are fair and the products are the real deal.
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Agree completely regarding VTS :thumb:
Andy is the Jedi Master when it comes to tubes!
Thru Andy I have retubed my ModWright Pioneer CD player and Anniversary Preamp, as well as my VTL 225 Monoblocks.
The only tubes that are not from Andy will be the JJ E34L output tubes which seem to have an unusual affinity for the VTL 225s.
He's not giving away his tubes, but rest assured you are getting the BEST and will be fully satisfied!
Paul Galli
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Any experience with Tube Museum?
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This is a long thread, and I want to mention Antique Electronic Supply again:
https://www.tubesandmore.com/ (https://www.tubesandmore.com/)
I just ordered four 6922 EH tubes for my Audible Illusions Modulus 2C, for $16.75 each, plus postage.
Edit: I ordered them Friday, and the arrived today Monday; shipped via USPS Priority mail. They are plugged in, and playing. So far, so good!
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Based on a recommendation from Don Sachs for spare new tubes for my amp I recently checked out these folks https://www.china-hifi-audio.com/en?zenid=dc2648d037b7a1b86688bc0c55f40559 (https://www.china-hifi-audio.com/en?zenid=dc2648d037b7a1b86688bc0c55f40559) While they didn't have the the Shuguang WEKT88 +, I did pick a set of WE6SN7 for use in a couple of my pieces, and some WE6CA7 + for rolling in my AVA Ultravalve. Service was very good, tubes arrived in about 4 days if I recall from China, so not bad. Prices competitive from the looking around I did, though they're only new PSVane or Shuguang manufacture supplies. I picked up a spare set of PSVane KT88 T Classic Mk IIs from Viva, also recommended by Don, as well as various folks here. In both cases it was an issue free experience.
Now to find a nice NOS 5AR4 or two that doesn't cost an arm & leg, and get some input on 6N1P alternatives. Will check some of the other sites recommended here, keep 'em coming folks.
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andy at vts
jim mschane and brent jessee in the midwest
the tube store in canada
kevin deal upscale in socal
all excellent
nobody is a fool, you want good old stock tubes, tested, you need to pay
like they say, they ain't making em anymore yet folks still want em
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Andy at VTS has the 5AR4's made in the Japanese Matsushita plant set up and tooled by Mullard for in the mid-$60's last I looked. You would be hard pressed to hear a difference between them and the Blackburn Mullard's for three times the price. A boat load of those tubes were sold in the US by Westinghouse and other long gone brands. Just today I rotated one into my Supratek preamp in place of a Blackburn Mullard and can't hear a bit of difference.
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like they say, they ain't making em anymore yet folks still want em
So true jjss. PM recv'd, will be in touch, Thanks.
Andy at VTS has the 5AR4's made in the Japanese Matsushita plant set up and tooled by Mullard for in the mid-$60's last I looked. You would be hard pressed to hear a difference between them and the Blackburn Mullard's for three times the price. A boat load of those tubes were sold in the US by Westinghouse and other long gone brands. Just today I rotated one into my Supratek preamp in place of a Blackburn Mullard and can't hear a bit of difference.
Thanks Jack, I noticed those reissues in my poking around. Will touch base with Andy as well.
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This is a long thread, and I want to mention Antique Electronic Supply again:
https://www.tubesandmore.com/ (https://www.tubesandmore.com/)
Be careful buying "NOS" tubes from them. The ones I received were most definitely well used.
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Be careful buying "NOS" tubes from them. The ones I received were most definitely well used.
Okay - mine arrived (ordered Friday, delivered Monday via USPS Priority - from AZ to MA in 3 days!) and the boxes were perfectly new, and I have no reason to suspect these have been used. They are in the Modulus, and playing, and so far so good.
Edit: I think these are new tubes - not NOS. They are they only new tubes that Audible Illusions recommends without any caveats.
I may decide to go ahead and get the Amperex NOS graded and matched set of 4 from Audible Illusions, anyway; if only to have a good back up set of tubes.
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I suggest the Tubeaudiostore. It is part of Ram Labs/ Music Reference . Roger before is death was easily one of the very top audio designers in the US. He really started tube testing the proper way. I buy all my tubes from them and so do allot of the major tube amp builders.
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This is a great list, thank you, everyone. Man NOS stuff is getting expensive.........
Trying to find a Mullard ECC35, yikes
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Be careful buying "NOS" tubes from them. The ones I received were most definitely well used.
I have twice received clearly used tubes purchased from Upscale Audio as NOS. It has been a few years since that happened, but then I've never ordered tubes from them again.
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Be careful buying "NOS" tubes from them. The ones I received were most definitely well used.
I have twice received clearly used tubes purchased from Upscale Audio as NOS. It has been a few years since that happened, but then I've never ordered tubes from them again.
I never bought from this store in question but from another seller AC member I got this junk below as new tubes, he refused to made a refund, Paypal was useless, for details PM me.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=107444)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=107615)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=107616)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=121324)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=121325)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=127861)
About these broken pins above:
In Russian factories the QC technician who tests the valves is obliged by safety determination to break the tube pins when the valve is rejected since these valves are intended to military use.
If an airplane crashes by a defective tube the OTK number in the tube is the number of the technician who tested the valve, so these tubes above were rejected by the factory QC and are sold for cents or free to the public.
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Just bought a pair of Sylvania VT231 from audiotubes.com
Excited :)
Thinking I might go with the RCA 5691 instead of a mullard ECC35, save $200 and easier to find.
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First time buyer at TubeDepot.com...color me quite impressed :thumb:
First off, he (Joe) answered the phone at 5PM. When he did, he was crisp, professional and to the point. The price of the JJ ECC81/12AT7's bought were very good and he offers a range of testing extras (matched quad adds $2.00 each tube, and low noise and microphonics adds $4 a piece).
http://site.tubedepot.com/preamp_options.html
Shipping is a reasonable $3.95 and it was packaged in overkill packaging.
Confirmation of order was sent via email the day after and it got here (from Memphic, TN) in only 3 days.
Hello do you still recommend the tubedepot ?
Thanks
A fine performance I think...one that I will probably reward with future tube orders :wink:
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First time buyer at TubeDepot.com...color me quite impressed :thumb:
First off, he (Joe) answered the phone at 5PM. When he did, he was crisp, professional and to the point. The price of the JJ ECC81/12AT7's bought were very good and he offers a range of testing extras (matched quad adds $2.00 each tube, and low noise and microphonics adds $4 a piece).
http://site.tubedepot.com/preamp_options.html
Shipping is a reasonable $3.95 and it was packaged in overkill packaging.
Confirmation of order was sent via email the day after and it got here (from Memphic, TN) in only 3 days.
Hello do you still recommend the tubedepot ?
Thanks
A fine performance I think...one that I will probably reward with future tube orders
Chair Guy passed away years ago also you wrote in the mid of his post.
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I'm definitely calling this Andy guy from VTS. My head is spinning trying to figure out which tubes to get for my VTL 2.5. I recently bought 4 tubes from Tube Depot.
Wasn't a cheap experiment. I'm pretty happy with the purchase though. Bought 2 X 12AU7 Genalex Gold lion & 2 12AT7 JHS Sylvania (1950's).
I would like to buy another full set as a back up. Curious what Andy will suggest. Tube rolling baby !!!
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Keep us informed on Andy suggestions.
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I started compiling a list of tube vendors and then added to it based on this thread. In alphabetical order:
https://www.audiotubes.com/
https://bigriverhardware.com/
https://diyhifisupply.com/
https://dougstubes.com/
https://gstube.com/index.php
http://www.mcshanedesign.net/
https://www.sovtube.com/
https://www.tctubes.com/
https://www.thetubestore.com/
https://store.triodestore.com/tubes.html
https://www.tubedepot.com/
https://www.tubeman.com/
https://www.tubemonger.com/default.asp
https://www.tubesandmore.com/
https://www.vacuumtubes.net/
https://vacuumtubesinc.com/
https://vintagetubeservices.com/
https://www.vivatubes.com/
https://www.watfordvalves.com/
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There is Angela:
https://angelainstruments.com/