Do power tubes affect tone at low volume?
This depends on if the power amplifier is driven hard. The secondary harmonics of an EL34 sound different than the ones from a 6L6GC or others. Each have a distinct tone and shape. At lower volumes, most of the extra “juice” we like to hear is not happening.
What do EL84 tubes sound like?
EL84 tubes typically exhibit a “chime-y” and bright high end, as well as a similar mid-range punch as an EL34, and a warmer, but still powerful low-end sound.
What tubes can replace EL84?
An interchangeable North American type is the 6BQ5 (the RETMA tube designation name for the EL84).
Can I use EL84 instead of EL34?
In the specific case of swapping an EL34 for an EL84, you actually can’t swap them because the two different tubes have a different number of pins on their sockets.
Are EL84 and EL34 tubes interchangeable?
Do tube amps sound better with time?
A tube amp always sounds better over time. However, one must assume a certain level of quality to begin with. A well constructed cabinet will flex and breath over time with the reverberation of sound adding to the warmth and depth much like an acoustic guitar does.
How often should you change guitar amp tubes?
You can expect a conventional amplifier tube to have a service life ranging up to 10,000 hours. Tubes with military specifications are built to last up to 100,000 hours.
Can I replace EL84 with EL34?
What is the difference between 6L6 and EL34 tubes?
The 6L6 tube is generally regarded as the “American” cousin to the EL34 tube. The 6L6 is a high headroom, high wattage power tube, but it has a significantly different sonic signature to the aggressive crunch tone of the EL34.
Which is better EL84 or EL34?
More watts equals more volume, more headroom, and a better frequency response — even at low volumes. Lower bass frequencies require more power, and the higher wattage of the EL34 is better able to handle the full frequency spectrum. The increased headroom can lead to a more open and less compressed sound than that of the EL84.
What is an EL34 tube?
The EL34 tube is among one of the most used tubes in any guitar amp. They are known for their very high headroom and high output wattage, with a pair easily being able to push out around 50 watts in a typical Class AB amp configuration.
Are EL84 tubes good for gigging?
Amps with EL84s are great for getting a nice tube saturation at medium volumes, so they are great for gigging and practice while still getting true power tube saturation. Common amps with EL84 tubes are: