Audio Research VT100 MKIII Tube Replacement


Hello,
I recently bought a second hand VT100 MKIII. I will replace amp's all 12 tubes. 4 pairs are 6550 I already ordered but I am confused about should I replace them with  4 single 6H30 tubes. Should I replace them with 6H30Pi or they have to be identical as 6H30.
Thanks !David.
davidbarac

Showing 2 responses by oldhvymec

It's a stereo? To save money that is a way to do it. At the time 6 matched valves vs pairs was a lot more expensive.. Not now... To many NEW production valves out there at really good prices.. BUT I'm sure it is a way that works well for their units.. 

After 55 yeas of valves.. I match valves per rail.. pretty simple.

The signal valves you're stuck.. No idea WHY people use valves like that.. Very limited valve manufactures too.. I call it the TV tube mentality. LOL what do I do with these old TV valves.. I know, I'll voice a power amp.. No idea why.. BUT I got 12,000 of them in a container for 50.00 usd.. Cary does the same weird stuff.. 12BH7, I mean WTF is that..
12AX7, 6922, 12AZ7, but 12BH7.. TV TUBE.. 

Regards..
You need to order the correct valves first, two sets of SIX. Not 12 singles or 6 pairs, or 3 sets or quads.. 

If the manufacture has options for different valves, they will be listed.
KT88, and 6550 usually can be interchanged.

No, they are not the same and certainly don't sound the same..

The small valves need to be balanced also..

Read then BUY, OP.. Save you a lot of money in the long run..

Have fun, be careful, and DON'T break off the index locator, pulling or swapping valves.. BE aware.. Be Careful..