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What's your best 5U4GB rectifier tube and why?

I recently acquired a 9 watt Class A design 300B tube integrated that came with a 40's NOS Japan 5u4gb rectifier that I wanted to compare to some of the best that's available. I'm new to tubes so I'm asking for your expertise.

It would be helpful to know why you're high on your particular tube recommendations and what differences one could anticipate with those you're suggesting to sample. Acquisition cost for same would be very helpful as well.

My amp is currently running with a pair of Shuguang Black Treasure 300B's and a pair of Black Treasures 6CA7's, in conjunction with a pair of Psvane 12AX7's all combined with the 'rec mentioned above.

Thanks in advance to all for the assist!

128x128coltrane1
onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,137 posts
 
The sound of a tube is heavily dependent upon the design of the circuit it is used in. What sounds best in one design may not be the best choice in another application.
philjolet's avatar
philjolet
2,305 posts
 
I know very little about tubes but Peter Q of Audio Note UK told me to buy the coke bottle shaped 5U4GB tubes for best sound in my Meishu 300B amp.

Obviously there is much more to it but I am guessing on some level he is right...

fwiw
dfhaleycko
178 posts
 
As Onhwy61 said, it depends on your circuit. If your amp will run OK with a 5U4G that opens the door to some nice black plate RCA's or perhaps some Mullard GZ32's which can be very nice. The Mullard GZ37 High Wycomb are wonderful in some applications. If you're stuck with 5U4GB, I think the Tung-Sols are about the best sounding in the various amps where I've used them. Currently, I'm using some Sylvania 5931's in my Pilot SA-360 amp and a Mullard GZ32 in my Modwright Transporter. But I didn't like either of them the other way around, that is, with the Sylvania's in the Transporter or the Mullards in the Pilot (altho they *were* pretty nice there).

In other words, try some varieties assuming they will meet the electrical requirements of your amp. Check with the maker, or check specs on Duncan Amps site.

Hope this helps!
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