EL84

 Important technical note on EL84/6BQ5s.

Most guitar amps that use these tubes are cathode biased (aka "self biasing") and generally don't require rebiasing when installing new EL84s. However, it is always best to check that the idle power of these tubes does not exceed the maximum rating (12watts) in your amp. Be sure to check or have your amp tech check the idle current/power when installing new EL84s. With some pairs/quartets (and brand, NOS or new production) the tubes will run too hot and have a very short life. If the tubes run too hot, a larger value cathode resistor must be installed. Please heed this warning as we will not be responsible for tubes that expire quickly. Your equipment is your responsibility.

A service charge of $10 per pair will be added for a specific request for "hot", "cold" or "medium" current rating.

Some modern guitar amp manufacturers have used Pin 1 on their EL84 sockets as "tie points" for connections. This scheme will not allow NOS EL84s to work properly. Some of the amps known for this situation are: Hiwatt DC40, Lexicon Signature 284 and Mesa 50 Caliber. If you know of others let me know.

In order for NOS EL84s to work in these amps, the connections from pin 1 of the EL84 sockets must be removed or Pin 1 on the EL84 tubes must be removed. The latter can be done with a pair of wire cutters.

Bad Cat, Matchless, Dr Z, Fender Blues and Pro Jr, Vox, Gibson Goldtone GA15s and other amps will work fine with NOS EL84s with no modifications.