How to tell.....


Dear tube experts,

How to tell a TFK diamond bottom smooth plate tube is a 12au7 or 12ax7 if most of the letters are missing?

Thanks!
eugeneli
1.If you can see the grid thru the holes in the plate structure, the 12au7 will have a more jagged look compared to the smoother look of a 12ax7.
2.Test it in a tube checker as if they are 12ax7's. If they meet spec, they're 12ax7's. If they are way down on the scale, they're 12au7's.