tubes going microphonic always same channel???


I have been having problems with mullard 12AU7 57 sqaure getters going microphonic on me. It's always the same channel, the outside tube close to the chassis. Is it because the pseaker is close (2.5') to that tube (see my system to see how speakers are placed).

Never really noticed this problem until I put in the square getter pre 58 mullards. I love the sound of these tubes, they are in a Cary CD 303/300 CD player. I'll put the 58 halo's in or some amperex to see what they do, or what is causing this. Hate to waste good tubes.

The tubes aren't cheap and this is the thrird one to do this in the same socket. I have done some tube rolling, hope the socket isn't bad. I'm a electronic tech, and my dad is a old tube tech from way back. He says it's because they are old junk tubes..LOL Just odd it's always the same socket??

Is this just a problem with old used square plates?? Are they more sensitive?? You can really hear it when the CD drawer opens. Then they will start making noise. I pull them out when I hear them, as it means the tube is bad.

Any opinions or help would be great.

Scott
sgsoundnut
I'll second the Hitman. Herbie's tube dampeners are in good use in my system. Sometimes a little microphonics can sound good.
I was wondering about those.. I know my AR REF II pre has them and I have no issues... Though they 60H30 new tubes.. I really like the sound of the Mullards... Put some Bugle Boy 7316's in last night. The bass isn't as tight like it is with the Mullards.. Thanks for the input,
Scott
Here is your answer as to why. Check the filament and plate voltage supply to the problematic channel. The voltages are probably out of spec, ie too high. Secondly, based upon my ownership of the Cary 303/300, the circuit design allows microphinic tubes to be audible.

Good luck