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What are very good tubes for a vintage AC 30 - especially for Shadows sound ?
Does anybody have experiences ?

Regards Hans

You can still get NOS, unused, Mullard valves, but they are priced for millionaires.

These days, it's going to depend on what's available rather than on what is ideal.

I've had good results for power stages from Sovtek EL84s (n my AC30), and from JJ 6V6s in a Fender Deluxe Reverb, so I'd say you'd be safe with those brands.

For pre-amp valves, the Russian-made "Electro Harmonix" ECC83 is well-regarded and fairly cheap, available for £10 at http://www.watfordvalves.co.uk.

You might also need a replacement ECC82. They don't come cheap - well, not as cheap as the ECC83. You can get a Philips valve for £16 or a Mullard for £55 (for one valve!).

GZ34? There's a Sovtek version at Watford Valves for £14 or £15. It has a reputation for being electrically and mechanically robust, which is all you need from the rectifier.

WV also sell Mullar NOS versions of almost all those valves - but the total price might be nearly as expensive as a new AC30.

The cost of valves in general seems to be getting rather steep these days.

Valves are my speciality.....I've just fitted 3 ECC83 reissue Mullards in my Matamp C7 and they are really excellent....I have one original Mullard and comparing the sound with either valve in position one I can't hear any difference. Definitely better than JJ, Groove Tubes and also some of the Mesa Boogie tubes that I have....not too expensive either, payed around £18 each....

Who makes those, and where from please?
D

Hi David.....I bought mine here 2 weeks ago

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ECC83-Mullard ... 1c4751bc2c


Paul