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Anyone Tried Unmatched Power Tubes?

I have read up on matching of tubes but not sure if it makes a significant audible difference as long as the tubes are within spec. 

Also, I would assume that, in a four power tube amp, only pairs of tubes needs to be matched. 

I could save some money if I don't need to match power tubes or only need to match pairs of power tubes.

I would like to hear from those of you who have have experience with this.


chinook9

Showing 2 responses by petg60

petg60
1,486 posts
 
Always follow what manufacturer claims. If you want them to last longer get them matched.
Depends from the design if they have to be matched in pairs, quartet or, whatever. When i had an amp with 8 output tubes i always got them quartet matched. Signal tubes should be matched in pairs also. 
G
petg60
1,486 posts
 
You are correct each pair for a channel.
I would replace all four in matched pairs.
Keep the good ones as spares. Why two are arcing?
I do not know if it is a push pull design, if it is, no matter inside or outside as long as they are matched per channel. A good vendor can match tubes with min extra charge.
G
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