I have quite a few of the RCA gray glass, both the military VT231 and civilian 6SN7 versions. They vary somewhat in color and in density of color. I am using a pair of the VT231's along with a pair of black glass Kenrad VT231's in my preamp now. The Kenrad pair that I'm using is similar in appearance to some of the RCA's in that one is more gray and the other is a solid black. They test identically and sound great. It is about the sound but if it bothers you, there are plenty of them out there for you to make up pairs that match perfectly.
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@billpete , Thanks for your share as I don’t use that particular tube. To the Op , I would definitely prefer a better looking pair especially with equipment that has them prominently displayed. I did most of my tube purchasing about 10 years ago when I got back into 2 channel and tubes. At the time I was able to try many brands due to lower cost and stock up on the ones I preferred. Unfortunately for me the tube preamp I acquired recently takes 8 - 6H30p tubes and nos are $$$. If I were you and you like the gear and those tubes, buy a nice matching pair and keep those for spares. Maybe I’ll see you at Tube Addicts Anonymous . 😆 Merry Christmas , Mike B. |
@buellrider97 Of course, I'd be happier if they did look exactly alike but I can live with it if they sound good. I'll keep getting more over time and if I end up with some that look and test exactly alike, they will end up together. Finding these old tubes is like a treasure hunt. I study as much as I can about them and do most of my "treasure hunting" on Ebay. I've had a couple of flops but for the money, I have done well there. I've bought from as far away as the Ukraine and had no problems. Most of the time, the tubes have been as good or better than what was advertised. I mostly make up my own pairs from odd lots or singles but I did buy the one pair of Kenrads as an NOS pair and they were/are as advertised. Finding them is half the fun for me. |
@buellrider97 Thanks. Great feedback. I am surprised that this pair is offered by Brent Jessee. Didn’t think he’d sell such a mixed pair, unless he’s really low in stock for those tubes. There are much better looking pairs on eBay. 🤷🏻♂️ |
@billpete Good point about hunting and gathering. |
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