Rhea V1 & V2 NOS tubes


My Rhea manual shows V1 & V2 as 12AX7LP and V3 & V4 as 12AX7WB/E83CCS. There are hardly any replacement choices out there for 12AX7LP. I've got some Brimar CV4004's that I think I can use in V3 & V4. Can other Rhea owners share what tubes they've rolled in V1 & V2? Can I use the same Brimar's there too?
viiu

Showing 1 response by viiu

Thanks to everyone for their input.

I rolled all the 12ax7s (v1-v4)with Brimar CV4004s and started getting what sounded like feedback from the speakers. I then switched v1&v2 back to stock and that worked out well. The sound is different to be sure. Most Lps sound better but I'm not so sure about a few. I'm assuming I have to give the tubes some breakin time so the sound should open up a little more.

I may also roll the 12ax7's in the Calypso to see if that makes a difference since it seems the CV4004 matches well to the 12ax7wb. From what I have been able to research the 12ax7wb is simply a higher quality 12ax7wa. I can't seem to find old 12ax7wb's. Is it is a modern tube variant of the 12ax7?

As for v1&v2, I'm not optimistic about finding good replacements. I need to find 12ax7lp's. I'm assuming that lp stands for long plate. I've seen Mullard long plates but am wondering if there are other options. I'm guessing these have to be very well matched.

I'm also curious what Rhea owners do when their tubes start to pop after warranty is up. Can you order a new set of stock tubes from Aesthetix?