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Tubes from Russia block

What is your experience of using all those NOS tubes from the Russian block, especially those which are supposed to be military grade ones?

I always test the tubes I received using my calibrated tube tester. I am finding out many unpleasant surprises.

I got them from eBay and even U.S. internet stores (some are supposed to be reputable). They are hit or miss. More than 1/2 of them have short, DOA, completely different looking labels, poor matching, or just too noisy to be of any practical value. I am not sure if it's just my luck (or lack of).

If you happen to use those tubes, would you please share where you buy them from?
bsimpson
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,197 posts
 
Yes, tubes are way more important. :^/
rodman99999
6,130 posts
 
I doubt if the guys at the Svetlana plant, that was in St Petersburg, ever started any wars. I sure did like their SED "WINGED C" 6550C's. Well, before I got my NOS, 1970's GE 6550A octet anyway(might been the last time though).
detredwings
162 posts
 
I have used 1578, 6n1P, 6N8S and 6n23p. They are not always closely matched but I have never had one DOA.
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,838 posts
 
I second the nod to Brent Jessee. If you care to, take a gander at his site and read up on the tubes you're interested in as he compiles a short and concise history of the one you want. Once you've narrowed it down, give him a call, let him know your budget and he'll give you some sound advice and recommendations.

All the best,
Nonoise
dgarretson
2,598 posts
 
Jim Mcshane Audio is another good source for vintage tubes and for tested & matched NOS Russians at reasonable prices. I've had no issues with the Tung Sol reissues from him and their quality seems to have improved in recent years.

Schubert, IIRC the Reflector business in Russia is as least partly owned by a US-based American who is presumably not Red.
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