Best tube dampers that you have used


I currently have a Thor Audio monoblocks TP-150, 8  EL-34's Sovtek tubes for each amp.
Was wondering in anyone's experience will tube dampers improve the sound quality.
Am hesitant to proceed as I have read that  tube dampers can melt from the heat of the tubes and sometimes
cause smoke. Any thoughts would be appreciated.  
kjl1065

Showing 2 responses by georgehifi

I have tried  pearl coolers, and ARC silicon rings on both power and small signal tubes. I always end up removing them after listening for a short while. They seem to kill the life and musicality of my tube equipment.
This says to me you like a little microphonics going on that's alright too.
To test your tubes for microphonics , turn the volume to where you normal have it and just tap each tube with the back of your finger nail, with someone listening at each speaker, you'll find the one/s that "doinks"

Cheers George
Forget expensive audiophile tube dampers, use red silicon "O" Rings are the best bang for buck to quieten tube microphonics used two spaced per tube.

Choose your size, don’t make them too tight, they "can" dent the glass over time.

https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=m570.l1313&_nkw=silicon+O+rings&_sacat...

Cheers George