Niteshade Audio is proud to present one of the most useful products a tube enthusiast is likely to come across: Our Tube Tester and Conditioner.
Power tubes like to be broken in for several hours. There is no need to wear out your amp breaking in tubes any more. Install your tubes in the conditioner to break them in, all while providing the ability to make sure they're matched properly and functioning correctly. Four power tubes can be tested at once. Compatible power tubes include the El34, El84, KT88, 6650, 350B, 6V6, 6L6, 5881 and KT66.
There are only two switches on our tester: Power and a grid test switch. By testing the grid, you can tell whether there is any gas in the tube or if it's shorted. Applying grid voltage also sends more current through the tube to test its high current capabilities.
Across the top there are four sets of binding posts. Each set provides a monitored output for the specific tube sitting behind it. With the supplied meter, it is possible to 'see' exactly how your tubes are functioning in terms of a positive voltage. The tubes are matched best when the monitored voltages are closest to each other. Some variation is normal. Testing is easy and completely explained within the owner's manual. Tube conditioning is even easier. Install the power tubes and turn the conditioner on. That's it! No adjustments are necessary.
At the heart of our conditioner is a massive power toroid.We built the conditioner for long hours of operation. All tube sockets are high quality ceramic. The octal sockets are vented around their sides to insure proper burn-in is achieved via temperature equalization.
We recommend testing and conditioning your new tubes before use in an amplifier. In conditioning mode, the tubes will see a load that simulates a tube amplifier. Well filtered DC is passed through each tube, enough to gently test all internal components without shortening tube life, even over long conditioning periods.
Simply put, our conditioner/tester is built to bring out the very best in power tubes and aid in the protection of your amplifier. Tubes are best treated in their natural operating environment, under ideal conditions.
Shown with a black powder coat finish. Other color options are available.
Price: $779 including shipping to the Lower 48.
