Tube rolling 12AX7As


I just acquired a McIntosh C2300 preamp that is currently being shipped to me. This is my first venture into tube gear. I see the owners manual states that this preamp uses 12AX7A tubes. Are those tubes interchangeable with 12AX7s? For tube rolling, do I have to make sure I swap out for ONLY 12AX7As?

I ask because from everything I have read and researched, the Mac stock tubes are considered mediocre compared to what is available out there as a substitute. Thanks in advance for the replies.
brad34695

Showing 1 response by vegasears

If the C2300 is new and breaking in, my advise is to leave it along for a while. If something goes wrong, one of the first questions you will get from any customer service person is "What tubes are you using and where did you get them? ".

12AX7 tubes are also named ECC83. Search both on the web, tons of information out there. Grinnell's posted link above is a great start. Where or from whom you buy from is huge. Keep in mind, New Old Stock {NOS) is hard to prove. Finding the right dealer, someone you feel you can trust is pretty tough. Also, search the audio forums for good tube dealers.

Good Luck!