User Tube Reviews (By tube type)

Hi Mike,

Valves arrived downunder today.

Awesome as always, your valves have proven to be the most reliable on the NOS market.

Thanks for great service.

Kind Regards Steve West

6V6G/T/A/Y
12AU7/ECC82/5963
EL84
6L6GC/WGB/7581A
12AX7/ECC83/CV4004/5751
 
12AT7/ECC81/VE4024
EL34
KCA Reviews

 

Brimar 6V6GTYs (Back to review index)

Mike and Donna,
Just wanted to let you know, I got to play out with the Brimars for the first time Friday.... what a great sounding tube for my Deluxe Reverb R.I.- Although my drummer made me turn down just a bit, this amp has never sounded fatter, or tighter.
Thanks
Denny Altaffer

Mike,

Those Brimars just kick ass! I cant believe how much better they sounded than the EH 6V6's in the Germino Masonette. The mid's sounded a little brittle before. Now they are rich and full. Just perfect!

Thanks again!

Carl

Mike,

The tubes made it safe and sound. Thanks. They sound great as well. The Brimars had some suprising effects on my amp (Tone King Meteor) that I am really excited about.

Thanks,
Jarrett Hinds

Mike:
Well, I finally installed the Brimar 6V6GTYs and the Mullard CV4024 with matched triodes plus the Mullard CV4004s in my BF Deluxe Reverb and WOW! I loved the sound of the DR with the RCAs but now I'm literally blown away! I've now got the smokingist, most awesome tone that I find myself smiling all the time. Your recommendations are right on! Time to stock up for the future I reckon........
Thank you!
Jeff Kind

Mike,

The 6V6 Brimers sound great in my Princeton! Thanks!

David Goode

Brimar 6V6GTYs (Back to review index)
Mike,

Thanks again for the NOS Brimar 6V6GTYs! I installed a 12" Celestion Alnico Blue (Celestion's top of the line speaker) in my 1969 Princeton Reverb and the Brimars really bring out the best in both the Celestion and my Les Paul. Fantastic mid-range and sweet high-end chime! (also my local amp tech saw the Brimars and said "wow, where did you get
these?!")

Thanks again,

David Goode

Brimar 6V6GTYs (Back to review index)
Mike:
I used the Brimars in my Komet and they sounded awesome, although the builder doesnt recommend them (ie: high plate voltage, 475Volts} they worked fine. In fact they sound so good that I'm putting them in my Kelley 30/60 combo thats
why I need 2 more!! The Kelleys at 495pv!!! Yikes!!

Greg Ward

Brimar 6V6GTYs (Back to review index)
Hey Mike,

I got my amps back from Don Butler today with those Brimars in it and my socks were knocked off! I really, appreciate you're tracking down the Brimar 12 au7-having all Brimar tubes in there the amp really rocks! The Brimar 6v6(GTY) maybe my all-time favorite power tube now for deluxe type amplifiers. Very creamy!

........ I would not buy NOS tubes from anyone else. Great prices, great service, great reputation. KCA is a
trustworthy name to me.

thanks,
Richard Kellogg

Brimar 6V6GTYs (Back to review index)
Mike,
... I popped the BriMar 6V6's into my 1960 tweed deluxe. Wow. Big difference. A powerful and rich sounding tube, with a warm middle and a creamy smooth breakup. Very nice tubes.

Ken

Brimar 6V6GTYs (Back to review index)
Mike,
Just a brief note to let you know how much I'm enjoying the pair of Brimar 6V6's you sent me. The Brimar's replaced an aging pair of RCA 6V6GTA's in my 1971 Princeton Reverb. I play clean at low volume, with no external effects, and the warm, smooth midrange the Brimar's provide is just what my 52 Reissue Telecaster and I were looking for.

Also, my compliments on your prompt, efficient service. With service and selection like yours a person would have to be out of their mind to buy crappy Mesa Engineering labeled tubes from a local guitar shop!

Wayne Golins
Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Brimar 6V6GTYs (Back to review index)
First off a tip of my hat to Mike at KCA NOS Tubes...A pleasure to deal with..great service and advice. Great selection. Just retubed the amp (Princeton Reverb)..checked bias and caps etc...amp is in tiptop shape...the amp sings...I took Mike's advice and put the Brimar 6V6's in her...

Richie

Brimar 6V6GTYs (Back to review index)
Mike
I like Brimars even better than Hytrons (which he liked better than RCA blackplates)!!
Best kept secret for 6v6 tubes

Al Zimmerman

Westinghouse/Marconi 6V6Gs (Back to review index)
Mike, geez what a difference (Mullard CV4004, CV4024, Westinghouse/Marconi 6V6G)!!! The amp has TONE now. Lest any stone be left unturned, please send me the rectifier tube of your choice (65 reissue Fender Deluxe Reverb). Our relationship will be: You tell me what I need and send it to me and I will pay for it! Thanks for the excellent advice, your patience and the good service. I'll tell my friends! By the way the 55 Pro I mentioned earlier I sent to Mark Baer at Victoria Amps. I'll be in touch with you later about it. If you need credit card info let me know.

Rod Scroggins

Westinghouse/Marconi 6V6Gs (Back to review index)
I bought two Westinghouse-Marconi 6v6's from Mike. I ordered one, liked it, and ordered another one a few weeks later.
I was using them(it) in a tweed Champ, and wanted a "backup".
Just recently I bought a Clark Deluxe, and put this "pair" in. WOW, what a sound!
I have nothing to "test" these with, other than my ears and eyes. They don't seem to glow too brightly, and the sound is to die for.
How far matched or mismatched they are is a mystery to me, but the sound a whole lot better than the JAN Phillips that were in there.

John DeCecco

Westinghouse/Marconi 6V6Gs (Back to review index)
Mike:

Thanks a bunch for getting these tubes out on Friday. They arrived yesterday and I just put them in and set the bias. They really are a nice sounding tube. These replaced new 6V6EH's and I'm happy to report that the headache-inducing highs and flabby lows the EH's delivered have disappeared. Thank you for recommending the Marconi's.

Matthew Bassett

Westinghouse/Marconi 6V6Gs (Back to review index)
Hi Mike,
I know you get a ton of responses to your tubes, just wanted to say I like the Westinghouse 6V6G's I bought from you. Not having a bias meter handy, I put the tubes in ( cathode biased 5E3 clone ) and assumed all was well with the 250 ohm C.resistor and 22uf bypass cap in place. The amp sounded great. The plates weren't glowing at idle or cranked up ( haven't had a venue to dime it yet ). I took the amp to a jam, had two guitars plugged in and played at 9 for 3 hours. Got some nice comments about the tone..

I did voltage checks on my first smoke test when I built this amp, but didn't crunch the numbers to see what bias current I was at. I decided to check voltages again Saturday night, and to my surprise, I found 23.5vdc on the cathodes. Unless my math is off, that's 47ma per tube at idle! With 365vdc on the plates ( 5V4G rectifier ), we're talking 15 watts dissapation at idle. Ouch! They didn't complain.

I did the sensible thing and replaced the 250ohm with a 470ohm. For now I've also replaced the 5V4G with a 5Y3GT. I'm now calculating 8.05 watts at idle. If there's a change in tone, I can't tell, other than less gain. Still sounds great. I won't say anything at the next gig and see if anyone notices the change.

Love yer tubes man..

Bill Range

Westinghouse/Marconi 6V6Gs (Back to review index)
Hi Mike, I like the Marconi 6V6G tubes alot! They have beaucoups of vibe. They are a bit darker, more powerful and thicker sounding than any GT's I have. I am a big fan of ST shaped tubes, and these are fine examples. These went in my Clark Beaufort (tweed Deluxe). Thanks!

Take care,

Kenny Lippe

Westinghouse/Marconi 6V6Gs (Back to review index)
Mike:
The Westinghouse/Marconi 6V6Gs are awesome! I love them in my Princeton Reverb and Carr Rambler.

Thanks,
Tim Scannel

Westinghouse/Marconi 6V6Gs (Back to review index)
Hi Mike,

First I'd like to say that those Westinghouse (Canada, made by Marconi) JAN 6V6Gs I recently purchased from
you are absolutey fantastic sounding in my deluxe reverb.

What I was wondering is... do you have any idea what year those tubes are? Just currious. (1940s)

Thanks,
Richard

Mazda 6V6GT's (Back to review index)
I received the Mazda 6V6s and I am really impressed with the way they sound in my '65 Deluxe Reverb. It came with Sovtek 6V6s, which are not built nearly well enough for that amp. Not only that, but they where very dark and bottom heavy, almost boomy. In my brief comparison I find the Mazdas to be very well balanced, much clearer and more sensitive to touch than the Sovteks. The Mazda can sound sweet but get really agressive when you lean into them.

Overall I really really like them a lot! With the Sovteks I thought I needed to change my amp's speaker. Now I realize that it just needed some fresh NOS tubes. Thanks for the recommendation!

Ryan Linderman

Mazda 6V6GT's (Back to review index)
The Mazda 6V6's are great...please send me another pair by US Priority Mail.
Thanks.

Mark K. Gordon

Mazda 6V6GT's (Back to review index)
Mike, I just wanted let you know that the set of Mazda 6V6GT's sound incredible in my reissue Deluxe Reverb. With GE JAN 12AX7WA's and the Mazda's it really brings out the best in this amp. I've haven't done a thing to it in a year expect gig with it regularly and it still sounds excellent. Thanks for your great customer service.

Thanks,

Jim Pfoh

Mazda 6V6GT's (Back to review index)
Mike:

Just got done installing the Mazda 6V6's you sent into my Allen Amplification Fender Twin Reverb Clone. Man, just exactly what I was looking for. I set the bias at about 21 ma's and it really sings with my Tele. Now it's not too loud (my fault for getting the 80 Watt version) and has wonderful harmonics and tone.

Thanks. I'll be ordering more soon.

Sincerely

Jim Jenkins

Mazda 6V6GT's (Back to review index)
Thanks for the Mazda tubes. They sound great! They have both more bass and more treble in my Princeton than the Ruby tubes I was using.

Chris Bradley

Mazda 6V6GT's (Back to review index)
Hey Mike

Got those Mazdas in my Deluxe over the weekend I've just got to tell you thanks. They are some fine sounding tubes - the amp came alive with these babies. Much clearer tone, and they hold their sound at both low and high
volumes.
Thanks again

Don Herring

Mazda 6V6GT's (Back to review index)
Got the tubes today they are great - am using in my Tone King Imperial. They are "responsive" with a solid bottom end.
Again, thanks.

Bill Donlin

Mazda 6V6GT's (Back to review index)
The Mazda 6V6's are very strong and very ballsy.

Lynn Bitterman

Mazda 6V6GT's (Back to review index)
Hi Mike,

Time for me to place another order. Today, I would like to order a matched pair of the Mazda 6V6 tubes. These are really nice in my Princeton and I'm getting some spares.

Thanks and Best Regards,
John Roberts

Back to Mazda 6V6GT's

Ken Rad 6V6GT's (Back to review index)
There are certain tubes that exemplify a clear aspect of their respective eras. The Golden Age of 6V6 productions, to
me, had ended by the mid 1950s. The RCA 6V6GT signified the culmination and end of that era. The VT-107, in its several forms, is a true pinnacle within that short-lived period. The Ken Rad, which appears as part of the GE family of the VT-107, is a wonderful tube. It is similar to the Sylvania in that it has an incredible clarity and warmth from the upper bass region, on into a very sparkly and extended high frequency range. The Sylvania versions I have (GT and not G) are very sharp and slightly edgy. The GE and Ken Rads, by contrast, exude warmth, but do not sacrifice clarity. The family together seem to resist being
pushed too hard. The breakup occurs more rapidly than the classic RCA. Consequently they require more sensitivity in playing through them, in order to maintain control into the distortion range. The RCAs seem easier to control overall, but
lack the beautiful midrange presence exhibited by the GEs and Ken Rads. And the Sylvanias seem nearly razor sharp by comparison.

My verdict on the Ken Rad is that they are absolutely necessary. My life is suddenly more complete. They are great for Country, Pop and Rock guitarists who don't need to stray too far into overdriven Blues-Rock. And they are definitely not
Metal or Grunge.

By the way, they were tested in a '57 Tweed Deluxe.

Thanks once again.
Richard Schense

Mike,

Thanks for the Ken Rads! They sound great (in a Deluxe Reverb).

Jason Smith
Back to Ken Rad 6V6GT's

RCA 6V6GT's (Back to review index)
My BF Deluxe Reverb has never sounded this good.....because I've never run NOS RCA Blackplate 6V6's in it! I've run just about everything else. After popping the NOS RCA's in, all that Sparkle, Spank, and Shimmer was there , with a nice tight bottem-end that didn't fold under my heavy right hand and .011 gauge strings! Mike K's a great guy....prompt, fair, and when he says "matched" he means it.

I'm in heaven,

Michael Fuller/ Fulltone Custom effects Fulltone Custom Effects

RCA BLACK PLATE 6V6GT (Back to review index)
These sound like the Sylvanias (6V6GTA's) with butter, cream and maple syrup on them. Absolutely wonderful, mismatched bottles and all.
I am keeping these right where they are, in my Marshall. Creamy but with bite and good power. You can run your Deluxe or Marshall 4001 wide open ( for hours) with these.
OVERALL RATING 10
Lynn Bitterman

RCA BLACK PLATE 6V6GT (Back to review index)
The Black Plates really bring the 5E3 to life compared to the JAN Phillips 6V6GTs (nice tubes, really) I was using. The Black Plates are not as hi-fi, but incredibly warm with rich harmonics when driven - a sweet
tone.

Kevin F. Lincoln

RCA BLACK PLATE 6V6GT (Back to review index)
I installed the tubes in my reissue deluxe reverb and set the bias. Wonderful improvement over the stock Sovteks. Without using all the normal adjectives to describe the sound quality, I'll just say the tone is now all there. These RCA tubes brought out the tone I knew the amp was capable of.

Sam
Back to RCA 6V6GT's

 


6L6GC/6L6G/6L6WGB/7581A

Visseaux 6L6G (Back to review index)

Mike,

The Visseaux 6L6Gs are quite possibly the best sounding 6L6 type I have ever heard -- including RCA blackplates. You can find a detailed review from me on the www.univalve.net web site. A real world class tube.

David B

(Here's the review)
This posting is a heads-up for those who like power tube distortion in the Univalve, and haven’t found a 6L6 type tube that does that thing well enough to knock your socks off.

France has made vacuum tube news again. A new Visseaux power tube, a 6L6G, surfaced recently at KCA Tubes .... The Visseaux 6L6G has a straight sided grey glass bottle that is as tall as an EL34 and a little fatter. Some
have “Visseaux Radio” stamped on the glass and others have “Visseaux” engraved on the black base – very cool! The flash gettering is somewhat rainbowed, but the tubes otherwise appear to be new.

The sound is remarkable. This isn’t a tube for those who need or want a lot of clean headroom, although it has a bit more headroom than a 6V6 in the Univalve. The Visseaux has a bright, detailed clean sound at lower volumes, moving smoothly through a soft breakup to a really nice, distinctive overdriven sound that is smooth and complex, somewhat reminiscent of a good EL34, and not biting and brittle like many 6L6s. I compared the Visseaux 6L6G in the Univalve today to an NOS RCA blackplate 6L6GC (at a guess, 60s vintage), a NOS Sylvania 6L6GA (at a guess, 40s vintage) and a current production Sovtek 6L6WXT+ (same as 6L6EH), running all the tubes on low voltage, using my usual Strat and
1x12 Celestion Blue rig. The Visseaux sounded better to me than all of them, although the more expensive NOS RCA blackplate had that great classic sound, and the Sovtek sounded really good at less than a quarter of the price of the Visseaux.

I have no affiliation with any dealer selling this tube. Just thought you all would like to know. I am a little afraid of starting a run on the bank, but I figure sooner or later word will get out, and Univalve forum users deserve to hear first. Hey, maybe none of you will agree, and leave more for me!

David B

Visseaux 6L6G (Back to review index)
Mike,
I listened to the Visseaux (6L6G) tubes yesterday (in my Audio Electronics Supply AE-25 DJH Superamp), and they are terrific. Great sound. Lots of detail, great dynamics, good bass.

Roger Lowrey

Visseaux 6L6G (Back to review index)

By the way, the Visseaux 6L6's are great in the Bivalve!!!! Please let me know how "available" these are. I'm tempted to order a couple more so
I can stash them away!

On second thought, forget the KT66's and please send me another pair of the Visseaux 6L6's, four RCA 6V6GT blackplates, and the RCA 5751. I
can't imagine anything beating the Visseuax's for the tone I like.


Thanks again Mike!!

Lee Asnin, Alaska

GE 6L6GCs (Back to review index)
Hey Mike,

Got the GE's I ordered and plugged them in to my Fender amp. I knew it would be better than the groove tubes, but I was still pleasantly surprised. Though I often play clean, I did notice that, when overdriven, the tubes delivered a fat, creamy distortion--good for blues in particular. Thanks for the recommendation. I will do business with you again.

Holiday Best,

greg DeMuth

JAN Philips 6L6WGB (Back to review index)
Mike,Thanks a lot for the replacement tubes [for my] Hot Rod DeVille amp. .... I can't get over what a fantastic improvement they were to my tone. First of all, the amp is WAY less powerful. I bet these tubes dropped it down to like 40 watts. What I used to get {overdrive] at 8 (out of 12) I now get at about 4. I can really USE my power tubes now!!

The tone of the Philips 6L6 WGB is fantastic. A little darker, MUCH warmer, very harmonically rich--I bet these things would KILL in a Super Reverb that people think is too damn loud!! I played my PRS into the amp, through a Hughes & Kettner Tube Factor. With mid setting on the gain and level (which is like a slightly gritty boost), my amp sings! Is sustains as long as I want, and the notes swirl and change while I vibrato.

I should add that the Mullard tube in the preamp (CV4004) really lives up to its name. The Hot Rod DeVille amp seems to have a design flaw in that the mounting of one of the speakers is so close to the V1 preamp tube that there is no way to avoid microphonics at high volume. The Mullard finds a way to avoid it! Still, it makes an even more dramatic difference in V2, the drive channel tube. It makes the gain channel come alive. I never realized how much tubes could enhance the complexity of the tone until now. I can't wait to test it out in the Tube Factor pedal!! The JAN/Philips 12AX7WA preamp tube is noticably warmer than stock, though not in the same class as the Mullard--still, for 1/4 the price its
great!

Thanks a LOT for all the info, assistance, and advice.

Kerry McAuliffe

RCA Black Plate 6L6GC's (Back to review index)
Regarding the RCA 6L6's.....I ran out years ago, and have been making due with GE's and (gulp) Svetlanna's offering, which wasn't too bad for the money. But when you have an early 1960 Tweed Bassman 5F6A, only Black Plate 6L6's will
conjure up

that reeks of the entire history of American Rock and Blues! The Blackplate's sound is defined by its firm bottom-end, sweet mids, and glassy Highs and they don't give up the Ghost when hit hard. There is no better 6L6 to be found anywhere, and life's too short for Bad Tone.

I'm set.....barring an earthquake of course.

Michael Fuller/Fulltone Fulltone Custom Effects

RCA Black Plate 6L6GC's (Back to review index)
I got the tubes today and they are all excellent. The RCA Blackplates just kill in my 5150. It sounds like a much more expensive amp! I am putting those in my fire safe for special ocassions and will be using the Phillips (7581A's) for
my bread and butter work. Thanks for all your assistance. Talk to you later.

Kyle Ashley

RCA Black Plate 6L6GC's (Back to review index)
Mike - I received my tubes today (RCA Blackplate 6L6GC's and RCA 12AX7A's), plugged them into both of my amps and couldn't stop laughing. WOW. This is probably a familiar story to you, but having acquired my dream collection of vintage Fender and Gibson guitars and Fender BF amps, re-tubing seemed like an expensive "maybe it'll make a difference" last step in the quest for tone. Those RCA's have transformed the tone of both of my amps into what I remember playing new in 1967. Better, really, cause I didn't have the axes that I do now! I will wholeheartedly recommend you in the future. By all means, use my comments as you wish. There a few sources for vintage tubes but I've not seen a selection or prices comparable to yours, so you deserve the praise.

Thanks for the quick turnaround, and no, I won' t be returning the RCA 6L6's.

Best wishes,

David Wilson

Back to RCA 6L6GC Black Plates

JAN Philips 7581A's (super 6L6GC) (Back to review index)
Mike,

Thanks for the tubes (Tele 12AX7 and a pair of 7581A's). I had then installed on Saturday. The tone is so much better I can't believe it. It seems like I have a cleaner, smoother tone with much clarity and the picking dynamics are just awesome. I thank you very much for all that. I would have to say that my Super Reverb RI is one of the finest amps I've ever heard NOW. These tubes have really made the difference for me!

Troy

JAN Philips 7581A's (super 6L6GC) (Back to review index)
Mike
Could I get another matched Quad of these. They're great......
Thanks Joe Richardson

JAN Philips 7581A's (super 6L6GC) (Back to review index)
Mike -

You were right. The Philips 7581A's are great in this amp (Fender DeVille 410). I couldn't get the bias any lower than 39mA - but heck, that's only 53% of the plate voltage! I think they'll last a long, long time. Even my wife commented on the great tone, which is different than saying "please turn that thing down!"

Thanks, T
Tom Houser

JAN Philips 7581A's (super 6L6GC) (Back to review index)
Dear Mike,

I have been playing the Jan Phillips 7581A's you sent me for about a week now, and can not believe the difference
they made in my 59 reissue Bassman. I had replaced the original Sovtek's with NOS GE 6L6GC's a while ago. This
made a huge difference in sound, but I still wasn't satisfied. The amp seemed a little dark and too midrangey. I experimented with different NOS preamp tubes including the 5751's, along with rectifier combinations, and was recently researching new
speakers. I decided to try the 7581A's, based on your recommendation and viola! The sound is pure, sweet, Fender. They seem to bring out the best of the Bassman's unique tone, as well as enhancing the sound of my pedals. Instead of trying different combinations of preamp tubes to improve the tone, the 7581A's make any combination sound awesome (lower tubes like the AY7 are sweeter and warmer, while using all ax7's now sounds smooth and articulate, instead of excessive).
You responded to my early Sunday morning email right away, and as in the past, the tubes were delivered
intact within two business days. You are definitely a man of his word, and honesty and integrity seem harder to find these days. You have my business for life.

Many Thanks,

Rick

JAN Philips 7581A's (super 6L6GC) (Back to review index)
Hey Mike,
Its Thursday night I just got the soldano back from the amp doctor , Just wanted to let you know the 7581A's sound great my amp has its sound back and better then ever. thanks for all your help....
Phil Urban....

JAN Philips 7581A's (super 6L6GC) (Back to review index)
G'day Mike

We've installed a set into a SF Twin Reverb (b'faced) and these sound fantastic - the bottom end clarity is astounding. This ain't no country Twin any more!

Thanks again
Willie Temm

JAN Philips 7581A's (super 6L6GC) (Back to review index)
Wanted to drop you a quick line to let you know I received the tubes (JAN Philips 7581A's) Friday. I put them in my 1963 Tremolux and took it it to have the bias adjusted. I picked it up today and turned it on to give it a try. I couldn't be more satisfied. These tubes are perfect for my taste. The sound is all there. Thanks for recommending them, you steered me right again. Feel free to use my experience to help others with their tube selections.

Sam

JAN Philips 7581A's (super 6L6GC) (Back to review index)
By the way, I got the JAN 7581A's in great shape. I played them only a short time (since I haven't connected with a reliable amp tech yet) and they sounded wonderful.....

Karl Melton

JAN Philips 7581A's (super 6L6GC) (Back to review index)
Mike:
...................
And now for the tubes. 7581As are really great. If possible I would like to order another matched pair of Philips 7581A.
Thanks for the great service.
All the best,
Dalibor Pavicic

JAN Philips 7581A's (super 6L6GC) (Back to review index)
Hi Mike

I have just receive the tubes (JAN Philips 7581A's).

I am now listening them, they seem to be very spatial and detailed. Of course i am sure after they are "well burned" they will sound better than now. Anyway i am glad about the first impressions.

Best regards

Joao

Back to Jan Philips 7581A's


12AT7/ECC81/CV4024
Mullard CV4024/12AT7 (Back to review index)
By the way, I recieved the Mullard (CV4024) 12AT7's, which literaly blow anything else out of the water (especially the JAN GE's I was using). [He's using a Fender Super Reverb. MK]

Ross

Mullard CV4024/12AT7
Hi Mike, .....

The real surprise was the NOS Mullard CV4024/ECC81/12AT7. I had never imagined the selection of a better 12AT7 in my amp's PI position could have such a significant impact on tone, but this tube certainly does. I have one of the dreaded "red knob" Fender Super 60 amps which doesn't have a great reputation, but I've always gotten good tones out of the drive channel. Even so, no one has ever accused this amp of having classic blackface tone. When I powered up after putting the Mullard in I was stunned that it actually does now have a classic blackface vibe. Outstanding!

This was my first foray into using NOS tubes, I see now why they are so much better for TONE.

Thanks,
Mike Hales
Weatherford, TX

Mullard CV4024/12AT7
Mike, I just got finished with a couple of amps for a client (BF Bandmaster, BF Deluxe non-reverb.) He ordered your CV4024 for the phase inverter, and it was my first exposure to this tube. Wow! These are really sweet! I'm going t recommend them in the BF Fender stuff from now on. I think it may be the best-sounding PI I've heard in there - even better than the RCA.

Pete Cage (Cage Amps)

Mike
I dig those Mullard 4024's..... I'm using one of them in V2 now in my Super instead of a 12AY7. Can I have 2 more?

-Ross

Mullard CV4024/12AT7
Mike:
......The Mullard CV4024 is much better than the RCA, which sounds very boxy in comparison.

Thanks,
Ryan Linderman

Mullard CV4024/12AT7
Mike,

I'm back again for more tubes. Please send out 4-Jan GE 5751's, and 3-Mullard CV4024's. These two tubes are fantastic reverb driver/PI tubes and now reside in those slots in ALL my amps. Even the Marshalls with reverb. They give an airy, articulate feel that I haven't found with any other tubes. Oh well, what can I say but thank you.

John Malizia

Mullard CV4024/12AT7
Mike:
.....
By the way. You DO use those Mullard 12AT7s( 4024) in your Fenders as PIs don't you.(YES!)......They gotta be the best(PI) tube on earth.........especially for the money . I am thinking about buying every single one I can find $22.00 ? I have them in my DR Z Maz 38 ,the Matchless Jorgenson and the Matchless chieftain + the super. They have improved the sound of each amp an almost infinite ammount in my opinion(especially the chieftain).

How many of the military Mullard CV4024 do you have? (Good stock on hand)

Lynn Bitterman

Mullard CV4024/12AT7
Hi Mike

Received my latest order yesterday - no problems. I just wanted to say that I'm really impressed with the Mullard CV4024. It's the first Mullard I've seen and the quality of construction and packaging is clearly excellent. I tried it in the reverb driver socket of my Prosonic and noticed a substantial improvement over the stock Fender/Chinese AT7. It took away the harsh/piercing/brittle sound of the reverb and also seemed to fatten the sound out a bit.

Thanks,
Stewart

Mullard CV4024/12AT7 (From Webervst.com tube discussion bulletin board)
Try this too: I use 2 NOS Mullard CV4024/ECC81/12AT7 tubes that I bought from Mike Kropotkin in my Budda Phatman overdrive stomp box. Same results: great blues tones, and a much wider variation of tones from the
gain control.

David Goode

Mullard CV4024/12AT7
Mike:
.....I really like the Mullard CV4024's and the way they're packaged too! Please ship me 4 more.
Thanks,
Jeff Braun

Mullard CV4024/12AT7 (Back to review index)
I have replaced the phase inverter 12AT7 in both my MB Mark IV and my ’65 Fender Super Reverb with the Mullard CV-4024 you recommended, and I definitely notice a richer tone, as a result. Plus, they are so pretty to look at, lol!
Thanks,
Kenny Lippe


12AU7/ECC82/CV4003/5963
RCA 5963 (Back to review index)
Mike, I received the RCA 12AU7A/5963 you sent me today and just finished giving it a spin in my Tone Works RealTube 901 pedal through a Fender Blues > Deluxe. Holy @#$&!!! I can hardly believe my ears! What a difference > compared to the stock 12AX7, and even to the other '80's RCA 12AU7A I was using. I can't imagine I was ready to sell the pedal. Never has changing any tube or pair of tubes in any amp or pedal I've ever owned had such a positive impact, all by itself, on the overall sound of my rig. I feel like I went from rancid cheese to sweet cream! (And I'm only 18 months older than the tube - I was born 5/57; the tube is dated 11/58. Do you think maybe it felt like it had to "respect its elder?") Please remind me to ask you to send me another one along with whatever tubes I order next from you.

Jon S.

Hi Mike,

I wanted to let you know the NOS RCA 5963/12AU7 recently purchased has really made my Tube Works Real Tube sound great, much smoother with more controllable gain on tap now.
This was my first foray into using NOS tubes, I see now why they are so much better for TONE.

Thanks,
Mike Hales
Weatherford, TX

RCA 5963 (Back to review index)
Just as I was about to sell my old Real Tube distortion pedal, you suggested that I swap out the 12AX7 in it for a RCA 5963. I took your suggestion, and wow, to my delight, it is now an awesome sounding box. It made a night and day difference.
Thanks!

Kenny Lippe
Back to 12AU7/5963

 


12AX7/A/7025/CV4004/5751

Audiophile Reviews of Mullard CV4004 and Telefunken ECC83
http://www.mil-media.com/tubetest.html

Brimar CV4004 (12AX7) (Back to review index)
Mike,
Had to drop you a note and let you know my first experience with NOS tubes has been great. The Brimar CV4004"s in my Marshall 50watt master volume are to say the least,sweet. Wonderful tone and gain, I'm still anxious to give the Mullards CV4004's a go, but can't bring myself to pull out the Brimars just yet, I've been digging them too much, Vintage Gibson P 90's never sounded this good before! Thanks for the advise and service, Best Regards from Central Oregon

Mike Houghton

JAN Philips 12AX7WA
I took your advice and started playing with preamp tubes. Originally they were 2 Sovtek 12AX7LPS and one Electro Harmonix 12AX7. When I put in a set of JAN Philips from my Bassman, there was a huge improvement, rounder, smoother, less harsh. Obviously this amp (Peavey Delta Blues) responds to quality tubes, so here's my order.....

Paul Gizelt

5751's
I REALLY like the sound of this amp with 5751's- I don't think I'll use 12AX7 tube in a Super Reverb again if I have a choice.
"Leroy"
Back to 5751s

JAN GE 12AX7WA's
Still can't beleive the difference in tone the (JAN) GE 12AX7's made to my Fender Tonemaster (originally had Sovteks). They've turned a really good amp into an amazing amp. The bottom-end is real tight when the amp is cranked and the top end is never piercing no matter how high the treble is set. The lead-channel tone has also been beefed-out considerably so that single notes sustain perfectly.

Later... Ian Anderson

Back to 12AX7/A's

JAN GE 12AX7 1963 Version
Mike,

Those GE tubes (12AX7 1963's) truly made a noticable difference (over Sovtek 12AX7WAs), thanks. Much less harsh high end than the original fender sovteks.

Scott Dobry

Back to 12AX7/A's

 

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)

Hi there I bought some Mullard Cv4004's off you a bit ago and wanted to let you know they are just the greatest pre-amp tubes I have used thus far. (he's using them in his Marshall Silver Jubilee 50 watt 1x12 model 2554)
I have 3 JAN Phillips 12ax7 tubes I am looking to sell. If your interested let me know.
Thanks.
Paul_Giudici

Hi Mike:

I put the Mullard CV4004 in my new Presonus AcousticQ preamp. First I played through it with the stock ruby 12AX7, then I changed it out to the CV4004. Aye carumba!!!

I play high-end acoustics—e.g. Goodall and Breedlove, and I have NEVER heard anything so sweet in amplified tone. I am hearing overtones and harmonic detail with much greater quality with a solid, tight bass response.. Thanks again for advice, Mike.

Happy holidays—Greg DeMuth

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Man, these Mullards (CV4004's) are frigging soulful!!! I'll write more later....I gotta play now! Thanks for the FREE pin protectors!

...(later that same week)
By the way, after a year and a half of playing a great amp (Bogner Ecstasy 101), I started to sense and feel something wrong with my favorite Bogner tone. My music's life and soul seemed to be diminished somehow. I then plugged your Mullard (box plate CV4004's) into the first three preamp slots. Good God Almighty! My tone is back and better than ever! I must get more Mullards from you. Afterall, there are three more preamp slots in this amp alone!

B.S.

Hi Mike & Donna,

Just heard the tubes and am absolutely ecstatic with the results. And so embarassingly -- and rather rashly too soon -- I am back for more. Now that my fingers are too sore to play anymore......

Would you kindly send me 6 more Mullard CV4004/12ax7's? It didn't matter what amp these were installed in -- Matchless, Brownfaced Pro,Tweeds, BF Pro Reverb, Twins, Marshalls, even a Hot Rod Deluxe! -- all sounded superlatively great whether you're looking for the rhythm sound of doom, a supremely oily lick, or delicate chording.
Could you also tell me whether this is the same tube as the Mullard ECC83/M8137 box anode which does so well in audio applications? [YES]

Best regards again and I look forward to hearing from you soonest,

Andy Locsin

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Hi,
I would like to order 4 more NOS Mullard CV4004 12AX7 tubes. These are great tubes!! My Marshalls and I thank
you.

Regards,
David Caruso

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Hey Mike,

Gerald Sylva [here], you were right the Mullard CV4004 sounded full and great [Rivera M60]. Although these tubes are pricey -- they outperform all others, and I have tried many. Please send me two and use my billing information on file. If you needed again just let me know and I will give you a call. Again thanks you have been a wonderful supplier of great tubes.

thanks,
GS

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Hi Mike. Ward here. Thank you for recomending the cv4004 (12ax7) for my Sunn bass head. I changed tubes before band practice tonight and when we started playing the amp it intimidaded me in a way. That thing was kicking,
but it was so cleen and had so much balls (for lack of a better word) it scared me at first.
Thank you Mike!

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Kropotkin's:

I received the tube today (Mullard CV4004) right on schedule! I tried it out tonight in my BFSR with my '69
Thinline, oh man, this is one sweet tube! It shapes the sound perfectly - tighter more focused low end and an incredible complex midrange - but it's still chimey. I thought my King of Britains pedal sounded awesome before - now , Holy crap! I get the most INCREDIBLE thick, angry, grinding, snarl! Anyway I'm sure you've heard all of this before, but you know how it is! Thanks!

Thanks for being the best in tubes!

Paul James

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Mike,

I guess you hear this a lot - WOW!

What a difference the CV4004's and CV4024's make, especially, in the Blonde Reissue Deluxe Reverb. It had a really closed, almost muffled, tone. Just changing the preamp tubes opened it up. There is so much more clarity and
responsiveness to a dynamic attack.

Thanks,
Jonathan Morrison

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Mike,
I'm writing to say that the cv4004's and cv4024's are sounding great. My amps are singing, it's that simple. Thanks a lot for your time. Take care, Tyler

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Mike & Donna:

I want to thank you for the quick response on my order for the Mullard CV4004 tubes. In a nut shell, I love what they have done to my Fender Blues Jr. Pure tonal bliss.
Jeff Reeder

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Hi there,
I rec'd a Mullard CV4004 - box plate for Christmas to use in my Digitech floor processor. Man, did it make a world of difference! I swapped out the original Sovtek 12ax7wa the first day I bought it and have tried a Tesla, Philips, and
Svetlana (the supposed Mullard copy). The Mullard CV4004 has the best tone and definition. Like comparing powdered hot chocolate in water to homemade hot chocolate with milk!!!! Its so much smoother and creamier and distorts nicely. I
thought the gain would be low, I was suprised at how much gain there is and how
much nicer it sounds.

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Oh man.... Mike, these tubes.(Mullard CV4004s).. my amp has NEVER sounded this sweet!! I had to tear myself away from the guitar to write this to you, seriously! The high gain sound I'm getting is *so* gorgeous, just luscious and creamy yet focused and beautifully defined!! I LOVE it!! I had to break em in a little, and dial in a new setting on the Mk IV, backing off on the gain and the treble just a hair. But after getting them warmed up and dialed in, they are *so sweet*!! I'm ready to order another set of 4 of these just in case - please charge 'em to my card and ship 'em out next week. The tubes were wonderfully packed, BTW.

Thanks so much,
Mike

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Mike,
Thanks for the quick service. The GE JAN 12AX7's (1963) are great, but the Mullard CV4004 is unbelievable! So sweet I may have to take insulin!!!! .......Thanks again...

Mike Aronson

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Mike Kropotkin; Thanks for the very quick turn around on my last order. I finally got to plug in the tubes over the weekend. I am using them in a deluxe clone I built and wow what a difference. The (Mullard) CV4004 is full of that fat blues tone. I may be exagerating, but the difference between this and the JAN Philips 12AX7 it replaced was almost as great as the difference in going from a solid state to a tube amp. The CV4024 in the phase inverter had a noticable impact in smoothness of tone as well, although not as great as the CV4004. ------ Anyway, I would like to place another
order. I would like to get another of those CV4004 just to keep on the shelf
for an emergency.

Michael Angle

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
These tubes kick butt!!!
Whoa,man! These thangs are smoke'n(MullardCV4004's) my 'lil Fender Blues Jr. is real leg breaker now! None of
my buddies can belive this is the same 15 watt combo I was jamming with last week! They all think I had some
"big dollar" Hop-Up done to it! But it's all in the tubes baby! Can't wait to get some more for back-up
when gawd forbid these go to that big tube ranch in the sky!!! Thanx a bunch!
Scott A.K.A. Wondercatjr.....

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Excellent sounding tube (Mullard CV4004) in my Victoria 4510 bassman. I put this in the 1st gain stage with the Amperex in the cathode and the 12ax7ge. I couldnt stop playing. Thanks!!!!!

Al Spears, Ill.

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Mike let me just say that I am in heaven, thanks to you and Mullard. I got the Mullard CV4004's yesterday and in a word WOW. Now I know why a lot of Fender guys love these. They really are all that and then some. The CV4004's and the CV4024's are just what I was looking for tone wise for my Texas Tornado (Boutique Deluxe Reverb). Plus the Visseaux's I got from you whewwwwwww!!! I got more SWEET blues tone than I can handle over here. You're the best Mike THANKS ALOT. If you own a Fender and are considering getting the CV4004's or CV4024's but are hesitant on the price, DON'T BE, buy em you will love them.

Bob Cummings:)

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Mike:
After doing extensive comparisons between the Mullard ECC83/12AX7s and the Mullard CV4004s, my friends and I are convinced that the CV4004s are the best! Unbelievable harmonics and tone in my Marshall and other amps.

Mark Safarian

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
The Mullard 4004's sound very creamy with humbuckers through the triode channel on my Matchless DC30, especially nice when I let them groove with plenty of distortion. They deliver a lot of content and musicality, and are extremely warm and rich. Although their clean sound is a bit limited, the buttery sound when really driven is outstanding. It definitely adds
a dimension to what I was able to deliver. Thanks.

Neal Stiffelman

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Mike-Thanks for the prompt order.I plugged them in (Jan Philips EL84s, Mullard CV4004s), warmed it up &started to play my routine stuff. I gotta tell you - these are incredible. My amp NEVER sounded this good. I play a Gibson Blueshawk with P-90's into a Peavy classic 30. Longer sustains, deep fat tone and creamy smooth depth. You need to get the word out more. Worth every dime to get tone like this!

I don't know if you play at all, but for a tone maven like myself, this is huge! Thanks again.
Trav

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Wow! The Mullard's really made a difference. I thought my amp (SF Deluxe Reverb) sounded great with the plain old Groove Tubes in them and I didn't think I would hear that much of a difference. The moment I turned the amp on, the sound was amazing. The (Mullard) CV4004s really bring out the tone of my guitars and the reverb from the CV4024 is so incredibly deep. I even have some increase in gain at a lower volume.

Paul Gonzalez

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
I have replaced all of the 12AX7 tubes in my ’91 Mesa Boogie Mark IV with the Mullard CV-4004 tubes, and this has made a profoundly positive change in the tone. The amp has more punch; deeper, richer, ringing, chimey, enveloping
midrangey tone; far more defined and focused overdrive in the lead channel and drastically reduced microphonics. I really love these tubes.

Ken Lippe (Atlanta)

Mullard CV4004s (12AX7)
Dear Mike,
I just finished retubing my Matchless DC-30 and '64 Vibroverb with the tubes I got from you. Those Mullard 4004's are by far THE sweetest sounding 12AX7's I have ever heard. They are absolute tone monters. I even tried
putting the old GE's and RCA's back in the amp to do a taste test. There is no comparison. The nos American tubes sound brittle and thin up against the Mullards. The Mullard EL-84's sound wonderful as well. They give the amp a
much fuller sound than the other EL-84 offerings currently available. I am very, very satisfied with these tubes and will definitely call on you again if I am ever in need any tubes. You were right, the 4004's rule!!!!

Thanks a lot,
Tyler

Telefunken 12AX7/ECC83
Wow! That Telefunken 12AX7 smooth plate is everything it is advertised to be. I've been re-tubing my recent acquisition - a Two Rock Emerald Pro. It came with GE 12AX7WAs in all five preamp spots. Nothing wrong with that; but I like
to experiment. I was beginning to think I couldn't improve on the original set up. In V1, the Mullard CV4004 was a little too dark, the JJ Tesla and the Mazda MIL chrome plate were a little too bright. But the Telefunken, man, that is just right. It is absolutely the most balanced driver I have ever heard. I expected smooth - and I got that. But I am really pleased with how tonally balanced it is from high to low. Great tube. Please send me 3 more.

Thanks Mike.
Terry Hutchinson

Back to 12AX7/A's

RCA 5751's, Telefunken ECC83/12AX7's
Mike Im using these tubes in Microphone Preamps I have a home studio and Im just as concerned about my sound as guitar players. I use the Tele's in a Peavey VMP-2 preamp and I use the RCA's (5751's) in my Art Mic Preamp. The RCA 5751 tubes are incredible they make my Art Preamp sound like a thousand dollar preamp.

Keep my card on file cause I wont do business with no one else but you. Your service is great! Ps feel free to use me as a reference if you wont to....Many
Thanks...Mike Hall

Back to 12AX7/A

Tungsram ECC83/12AX7A (Back to review index)
I just did a massive 12AX7 test in my Demeter mic pre. The Tele, which had previously been my all-time fav, got destroyed by some of the new contenders: The Tungsram (Yeah!) The NEW Bugleboy (the last one i tried stunk, so there must have been quality control problems) and the Mazda type-I all were more punchy, full, and focused. Only the Tungsram had the same resolution, though, so it's my new fave.

Allan Speers

Mike thanks for the tubes . I was about ready to hock my Holland but that Tunsgram made a big difference and brought it to life. This tube sounds better than the IEC Mullard and the Tele in this amp. Can I get 4 more?

bluesandgrits
Back to 12AX7/A


EL84/6BQ5
JAN Philips 6BQ5/EL84s (Back to review index)
Hi Mike,
Just brief note of thanks for recommending the JAN Philips EL84's. The tone is great and the usual EL84 hummmm is almost nonexistent. I'm very pleased. After numerous frustrating experiences, you may have permanently removed my "fear" of buying EL84 powered amps
Best Regards
Craig Tower

JAN Philips 6BQ5/EL84s
Mike-Thanks for the prompt order.I plugged them in (Jan Philips EL84s, Mullard CV4004s), warmed it up &started to play my routine stuff. I gotta tell you - these are incredible. My amp NEVER sounded this good. I play a Gibson Blueshawk with P-90's into a Peavy classic 30. Longer sustains, deep fat tone and creamy smooth depth. You need to get the word out more. Worth every dime to get tone like this!

I don't know if you play at all, but for a tone maven like myself, this is huge! Thanks again.
Trav

JAN Philips 6BQ5/EL84's
Mike,

Just wanted to let you know I received the Phillips EL-84's and the solid state rectifier today.I dropped them in my VHT 45 Pittbull,set the bia's cranked it up and the amp sounds tight and fat!!Amazing what good tubes will do for an amp.Keep up the great work/service!!

Dolan

JAN Philips 6BQ5/EL84's
Mike:

I got the replacement JAN Phillips EL84 today, and it rocks. This tube is so much better than the Sovtek; frankly I am quite surprised. I just bought and sold a Dr. Z Maz 18 Junior which I believe had two Sovtek EL84s in it. If indeed it did, then I was nuts for not putting two of these in there! Now I need to find another EL84 amp so I can pick up a pair of these from you and install them. Thanks for all your help.

Gary R.

JAN Philips 6BQ5/EL84's
Mike.....

You are -- THE -- man. Got the tubes today, like 2 or 3 days after I ordered them? Well I didn't feel like waiting until Christmas so I gave them to my friend Mike today, we plugged them in ( into his Fender Blues Jr. replacing the stock Sovtek EL84s) and WHOA, what a difference..... you know, I honestly didn't think new Fenders were able of attaining anything more than an earsplitting buzz when you overdrive them, but no joke, these tubes did the trick!

Oh yeah, there's a thread on the Strat email list that's been going around for about a week now, and over a half dozen guys recomended you when some guy asked if new tubes would help in his Blues Jr. and where to get them from -- thought you might like to know that ;)

Later on, happy holidays to you,
-Ross "Yung-Gun"

JAN Philips 6BQ5/EL84's
Nice and WARM.....A little louder than the Sovteks that were in there. No problems whatsoever during the performance.
I've only had limited experience with the sound of various tubes, so I don't think I can provide a very authoritative comparison to other glass, but these sound great!
-don milazzo

Mullard (Great Britain) EL84's (Back to review index)

Hi Mike,I just wanted to say thanks for getting the Mullards out so quick.They were waiting for me in yesterdays mail, (Monday). These are definitely the best sounding tube I've had in this particular amp ( Korg/Vox AC-30).

Mark McKenzie

Back to EL84's


EL34/6CA7
Mullard/Miniwatt EL34s (xf2 Mullards) (Back to review index)
Mike,

I was using Svetlana EL34. Miniwatt has softer sound, which is NOT my preference usually. But, Mullard has some high end clarity going, which I like a lot. It sounds like Plexie. Great tubes.Thanks for your answers. I'll buy from you, whenever I need more
tubes.

Masa

Mullard EL34s (xf2 type)
Hi Mike,

Thanks for sending the Mullard EL34s so promptly. My 50 watt TopHat Emplexador is now completely outfitted with NOS tubes (Mullard CV4004 and Telefunken 12AX7s in the preamp) and it sounds AWESOME! Beautiful
hot-rodded vintage Marshall tones with rich harmonic complexity. I must admit, I was somewhat skeptical that NOS tubes would make much of a difference, but I'm a believer now!

Thanks again for the great tubes and prompt service.

Peter Williams

 


General Kind Words From Customers (Back to review index)

Hi Mike,

Got the valves this morning - all arrived in good condition, looking forward to trying them out!

Watford Valves here in the UK usually takes about a week to ship to a UK address, you managed an Atlantic hop in 4! Great service.

Thanks

Hayden

Mike,
Just to let you know, before I wasn't very particular about tubes. I was getting/buying any brand but when my friend referred me to your website, everything changed. I had to completely change the critical tubes in all 4 of my amps. You have completely opened my eyes about tubes; and I can say that you are the best in the market - very knowledgeable and honest. I can say now that I will only buy all the tubes from you. You are the MAN, and I can readily refer you to my friends. I'm not a pro player but I love to jam/gig with my friends; and of course, I love my amps. Thank you.

Rafael

Mike & Donna,

I just wanted to let you know how much the NOS tubes I purchased have improved the tone in both my amp heads. I couldn't be happier!! Thanks for the speedy delivery as well. I will look you up the next time I am in the market for tubes.

Thanks again,
Dale Reel

Mike,

One of the primary issues I have had with (a competitor of KCA) is their matching, or so called "perfect pair" nonsense. I have ALWAYS offered, to all that buy a "perfect pair" of their tubes, to come to me with the tubes, and I will show them how they actually match .... statically AND dynamically on a test equipment at no cost to them.

They use these "numbers", which I can not equate to any sort of tube testing equipment, or B+ voltage, or bias voltage. The numbers in almost every case, are the same on their label, but in these cases I cannot find any sort of match at all.

Maybe it is just me, and perhaps their tubes are the "perfect pair", that is surely possible I guess.

Your preamp tubes go through testing on the VTV test unit, and it shows. When you sell an audiophile quality tube, it is quiet and matched on both sides of the triode. Hell, that is why I send folks to you, and I do not think I have ever had anything but thanks from folks that I did refer your way.

I cannot figure out how (a competitor) does whatever they think they are doing. I have ten folks on three continents that order stuff from them and other vendors, where for output tubes say something to the extent of .... "I have a Marshall 1987 or a Fender Super reverb. I want a set of tubes that will be the same as the stock tubes as the bias has never been adjusted if possible". You would be shocked at what we get.

Now, if I call a tube factory and ask for samples, they turn out to be hand picked samples, so I found out quite early on, that this did not work.

You have been on my website for perhaps over two years at this point. Before you knew me or were on the website, a fair amount of stuff was ordered from you via you call in phone line by various folks that I work with. In every case, we received what we expected and at a price that was more than fair.

I personally come to your company most often, as you have what may be the largest supply of NOS stuff for guitar players. There are some high end audiophile folks out there that have more of the "non-common tubes not generally used in guitar amps", and they are nice too, but can be pricy.

I find your value for your asking price to be execeptional, and quality consistent.
I will also publically state here, that I have never received any discount, free stuff, compensation, or consideration in any form from KCA. I buy stuff at the posted price on KCA's website.

I take no compensation from the folks on my personal website in any way. This is one way of trying to have folks on my website that deserve to be there, rather than folks that buy advertising or give free stuff out.

Folks that know me personally, know that when I like something, I go all out .... and when I do not, I do the same. There is no gray with me, it is black or white. Maybe that is part of the reason I have been married three times.
In any case, I very strongly support KCA, and have many clients that are thankful for the way you have supported them.

Myles Rose
Groove Tubes Special Applications Group &
Guitar Amplifier Blueprinting
www.guitaramplifierblueprinting.com


Mike:

..........
I always appreciate your friendly service, astute advice, awesome inventory, attention to detail and promptness!

Sincerely,

Kenny Lippe

Thank you sooo much for the prompt service and the great tubes!!! This just proves how important good NOS tubes are!!!!!! My blacface deluxe rev has never sounded so good!!!! Who needs "the peddle of the month" ???? All you need is a good guitar, cord, and a great amp!!!! My 62 ri George L cord, Delux with youre RCA NOS tubes and WEBER speak have ALL the tone and sound anyone could ever use!!!!!!!!!!!!! My 52 teleri Really came to life with this setup also My mod. princeton kicks with those visseuex tubes !!!!!!!! Please exept my thanks and i will be ordering many more things from you soon and will spread the word about youre tubes !!!!!!! It really is nice to have the"tone" at my fingertips and not have to cover it up with anybodys effects and just dealing with learning to play up to my equipments potential!!!!!!

I have tried just about every thing their is to buy to improve tone on already "good equipment" but this tube thing really is
the single best bang for the buck ive found!

Thanx Kevin Hanson

Hi Mike:
Received the order today - no problem. That's a record - 8 days!

Stewart Laird (Australia)

Hey Mike,
What a surprise ..............I recieved the tubes today! I didn't expect to get them this quickly!!! Thanks! Everything went exactly as planned. No lost parcels or broken tubes (they were packedvery well) , etc. It's been a pleasure doing business with you. I wish alldealers/vendors, etc were as helpful and service-oriented as you are. You'll definitely be hearing from me soonagain................

I have to get off the computor now and pop a set of those RCA's into my '66 BFSR and crank it! BTW, keep those
e-mail spams coming!

Once again thanks.

Regards,
Peter Festejo (Sweden)

Mike:
There are a few Internet tubes sales outlets, and most have very comparable prices. You were by far the friendliest and most concerned about what tubes I needed. Thanks again for the help. I can't wait to hear my Blue Angel with its new tubes!

Nick Dahl ndd3@cornell.edu

Mike,
I received the order a couple of days ago and everything is fine. It's the first time that somebody's taking care about the receiving of an order from the States to Germany.
Excellent customer service!
Thank you and happy holidays,
Lothar Dudek

Hey Mike, I got my tubes (RCA Blackplate 6V6's and JAN GE 12AX7WA's) on wednesday, they sound fantastic and matched within 1mA! thanks a lot!

Marc Corbett

Mike,
Just wanted to let you know how pleased I am with the Mullard EL34's you sent. My Amp has never sounded better! Hopefully you will have some more of these for sale in the future.
Thank you,
Dave Super

Hi Mike!
I've adjusted the Bias and now it's OK. The tubes (JAN Philips 6L6GC's) work right.

I played with Kenny Neel and his blues Band ,last nite,at Isola del Liri Blues Festival. We played together on the "The Twin" 'cause the sound was very great.

I want to Thank you again.

:-) Ciao Gianfranco (Italy)

you're the man...i agree with you, i think he's (the amp tech) just pissed cause i didn't buy Ruby tubes from him...put rectifier tube (Brimar 5R4) and preamp tubes (12AY7's) in (reissue Bassman) it last night...already have seen improvemnt as amp starts to break up at 4 now (instead of 8) and has better tone to boot...that Brimar tube is cool looking (any idea on year it was made), amp tech said i didn't need to rebias the rectifier tube, hope he's right on that, if not i'll have him do that...i love to do a "pleased customer letter" for your web site

Gary G.

Dear Mike

The RCA/Sylvania large bottle 6CA7/EL34 pairs came in yesterday - in perfect condition. The sound is great again. I simply couldn't accustom to the sound of the new small bottle substitutes in my vintage Ampliton TS3000. And there is that violet glow in the large bottles ....... If you like, let me know whenever yout get in these fine (as far as I know Sylvania, RCA/Sylvania, WE ??) large bottles. Thank you - as a reference - for this incredibly fast and friendly service
(US - Switzerland in 4 working days - order sent and confirmed on sunday !).

All the best for your business

Walter

Hi Mike,
Great news, i received my tubes on tuesday 29th. It's a great improvement on my stock fender tubes. My DELUXE REVERB is much more better now, no more microphony, no more noises, and a brighter sond. I put a 5751 in the first stage of the vibrato channel, and the amp is more clean when crancking up.With my strat plugged into the "low"input jack, and using a power brake, i can turn the volume to 8, and the amp stays clean. Beyond this point it's a nice overdrive. Of course when i use my epiphone with humbuckers, the overdrive starts more soon. Anyway, i want to congratulate you for your efficiency. I've received my order in 1 week, and the tubes are good. Thank's again for your advices.

Best regards from France
Robert