Metal-base and non metal-base 5AR4/GZ34?

Sonically, what's the difference between the metal-base and non metal-base 5AR4/GZ34 rectifier tubes, Philips/Amperex or Mullard? Especially as they perform in the Modwright 9.0 SE preamp?

pmboyd09-11-2011 5:30pm

Showing 3 responses by rodman99999

rodman99999 Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 6,206 posts 03-15-2015 at 09:43pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete None of the re-issues will compare with a true Mullard(Blackburn Plant) GZ34, either in sonics or lifespan(metal base, or not).
rodman99999 Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 6,206 posts 03-17-2015 at 02:01am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I suppose you missed the, "METAL BASE, or NOT," in my post. There are lots of bakelite base Mullard/Blackburns out there, for MUCH LESS than $400, any of which will outperform the reissues. Someone else just might happen to read this thread, that would appreciate the info. But, hey- as long as you're satisfied, HAPPY LISTENING! (http://www.ebay.com/bhp/mullard-gz34)
rodman99999 Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 6,206 posts 03-17-2015 at 10:10pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete The ones with the 'B' in the date code(ie: F32/B6H4), are from the Blackburn Plant. Personally; I found the double gettered type to be some of the most reliable and best sounding. A couple examples: (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Mullard-Shield-GZ34-5AR4-2x-Halo-Getters-Stereo-Tube-f32-B2D2-2475-23-/181688527974) or (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mullard-Blackburn-GZ34-5AR4-Double-OO-Top-Round-Getter-Rectifier-f32-B5K1-Tube-/161600624492)

More to discover