Do tube dampers really work?

I am using Shun Mook Valve Resonators, which are more than tube dampers, on the input and output tubes. I could not believe they work pretty well on my system (Berning amp) with more musical, lively and lush but detail... The Valve Resonators can adjust the sound you want. I will try them on my preamp later. Good luck.

1markr,

I couldn't tell the readings before and after using the Hal-Os. You may want to contact my friend (in Germany) if you're really interesed. He could be reach at [email protected].

FYI he's a honest tube seller and he has to measure tubes, to grade the good tubes and to scrap those bad tubes. He measures tube parameters and microphonic. So I sent him 2 sets for measurement of microphonic reduction.

Hee,
When tube is microphonic it's definitely bad. Dampers help to run that bad tube with more time "unaudiable". Try to compare readings on half-dead tubes using Hal-o dampers.

I was curious about what sound people were hearing as they were moving their Hal-O tube dampers up and down. There seems to be a classic tradeoff of: thinner bass, more detail, vs. tubbier bass, warmer midrange, less detail. Is that what you've heard when moving the dampers up and down, or something different?

thanks,
Bill

I am curious about what people notice, too. What are people hearing as an improvement?

I understand how less vibration would help with sound and that heat dissipation might prolong the life of a tube. I really like any idea that is cheaper and works. Bigkidz offers the lead ribbon idea. That would get the weight but would not lead concentrate the heat in one spot?

I have seen the Hal-O things listed here a lot. Andy from Vintage Tube Services is highly respected and he offers gold-plated brass dampers. BUT, they are to the tune of FIFTY-FOUR dollars EACH for small tubes like the 6922. Has anyone tried these and are they better in relation to the price difference?