Kaye Small Signal Tube Checker + 6SN7 Adapter
[SOLD] (plus shipping and Paypal fee).
This tester only rarely comes up for sale. If you are looking at this ad then you know what it is. The price is not out of line for past sales of this unit, and I am in no rush to sell, so do not expect any movement (although I may consider some trade value to lessen cash burden, see below).
This unit is Serial No. 940049.
Most notably, this tester checks small signal tubes for noise and microphonics in a Class A circuit. What you find is that every tube generates some noise and possesses some level of microphonics, as that is an inherent defect of the design and materials of construction, but this tester provides a clear and easy way to separate the best from the worst.
This tester also tests small signal tubes for gain and distortion, which is a better way to match than just looking at transconductance.
While not a precise measuring device, this unit is a great tool for screening otherwise good-testing tubes to find the best potential fits for phono and other high-gain stages.
Even today, the combination of screening tests that this little device offers with ease can only be reproduced on much more bulky and expensive equipment with a lot less convenience.
This unit will test most common 9-pin small input tubes, including but not limited to 6BQ7A, 6DJ8/6922/7308, 6FQ7/6CG7, 12AT7, 12AU7, 12AX7, 12AY7, 12BH7, 12BZ7 and more, although a handful (like 6EU7, 6AN8 and 7199) do require an adapter. This will also test input octals like 6SN7, 6SL7, 12SN7 and 12SL7 with an adapter (included as described below).
I am not the original owner, but have had this piece of equipment for about 10 years. I rarely use it (only once or twice a year), and almost never for my own benefit (usually for someone who wants tubes from me, as I do not use a phono stage and my equipment is not so sensitive), so it is time to let it go to someone who can really benefit from it.
This was sent back to George Kaye in 2010, at which time he completely checked it out, including recalibration and replacement of the original socket. I have probably used it for less than fifty tubes since that time.
The wooden case is a little beat up, but everything else appears in good shape. I just put it through its paces and it works the same as when I originally got it (with the filament voltage switch being a little sensitive but fully functional), including the speaker and headphone jack (which you sometimes need to jiggle ever so slightly). The unit is sensitive to a number of factors, so having good socket-pin contact (clean pins), clean input power and limited background noise does help consistency of results.
I will note that I have never used the internal input or scope outputs, but have no reason to believe that there is any issue with them (since they passed George Kaye’s checkup).
The unit comes with a Kaye adapter for testing 6SN7/6SL7/12SN7/12SL7 and a new 9-pin socket saver. I also have an electronic copy of the manual.
I can provide additional pictures or info on request.
GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONSPlease note that this unit is being sold
‘AS IS, WHERE IS’.
THERE ARE NO GUARANTEES OR WARRANTIES OF ANY TYPE, AND ALL ARE EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMED.THIS SALE IS FINAL - there are no returns or refunds of any type.
If you are close enough to me, you are willing to come check it out in person prior to purchase.
Shipping will be via USPS Priority Mail or FedEx Ground (unless other arrangements are made), and the buyer will be responsible for all shipping charges (including insurance). Package weight will be 10 lbs.
Cash is always welcome for a local transaction. Payment can also be via money order/cashier’s check/personal check preferred but, except for US Postal Money Orders, all must clear my bank first.
I also accept Paypal for convenience, but add 3% (USA) or 4% (outside of USA) to use Paypal. IF YOU PAY VIA PAYPAL, HOWEVER, A CONDITION OF YOUR PAYMENT IS THAT YOU EXPRESSLY WAIVE THE RIGHT TO FILE A PAYPAL CLAIM OR CHARGE BACK (but do retain the right to sue me in court should you so desire).
As indicated above, I may take some trade, but really have no needs. The trade has to be at the right value, or it will not be considered. Of most interest would be tubes, including KT90, 5AR4/GZ34, 6087, 5Y3GB, 5992, 6V6G, 7408, L63 and CV1067 for myself, and others of good value for resale. I could also use a solid state drive (256 GB or larger), a couple of 1 TB or larger SATA or USB hard drives, or a blue-ray computer drive. In any event, feel free to inquire.
Please check my feedback on Audiogon and Ebay (ID=baileyler) and buy with confidence.
