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12AT7 tubes

Hi audiogoners,
I need to replace one tube in my VTL phono stage, it marks 12AT7/ECC81. Is it safe to use tubes brands other than JJ tubes VTL recommends, like mullard or telefunken one.It looks like there are different version of 12AT7 in Mullard.Can someone tell the difference for each version.and your recommendations.Thanks for any information.KB
easytune

Showing 2 responses by mechans

mechans
3,048 posts
 
There is no need to stay with the JJs. I have a bunch of 12AT7s except the truly expensive and rare they all have their own sound, Start rolling.
mechans
3,048 posts
 
The gain factor is constant for a 12AT7. The age of the tube can be a factor in dissipation but it's only noticible if you have a brand new or near dead tube. Is that what you meant about matching it to the 12AX7s. Go to the Tubestore.com and use their gain factor chart. Or did you mean matching channels in that case both should be very closely matched and the same tubes. I don't get it? You don't need to match the the 12AX7s.
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