Tube sockets and wire?

[mark0614]

In my build I an going to use EI 12AX7 tubes. I have found that the (NOS Mil spec, you know the kind of thing I'm talking about) tubes sockets are very very tight with these particular tubes.

While I don't want to use loose sockets to accomodate these tubes, I fear the ones I currently have will be easily damaged by pulling out the EI tubes.

Regarding wire. I'm torn between using multistrand teflon coated wire and solid core cloth covered wire. What are your thoughts?

Thanks for your assistance.

Yours Sincerely

Mark Abbott.

[rjgtr]

Mark,

First I find cloth wire is a pain in the rear to handle and keep cleanly cut, especially when modding an amp. If you're going to use solid wire (I like it for fillaments), then don't get cloth. Marshall didn't use it in most of their amps (maybe in a few early ones) and the cloth has no mojo.

Second, you'll be fine with the sockets. They will loosen up over time. The EIs won't hurt them. Reguarding the EIs, make sure you get them from someone who throughly tests them. They can be a great tube, but have a tendency to go microphonic.

[s2]

Mark,

Go with the Teflon. You won't regret it. I've done several amps in cloth with a solid core, and a couple of them have come back to haunt me with broken connections. Teflon fine strand is easier to use and more durable.

I will echo Richard's comments on the tubes. I think EI gray plates are some of the best sounding new tubes you can get, but MOST of them are microphonic. The older dull gray ones seem to be better with the newer silverish plates being more prone to going bad (or starting out that way). In the past year, 100% of the EIs I have bought have been microphonic.

If you are building a head and plan to keep it separate from the cabinet, you might be OK with them.

[mark0614]

Thanks for the advice regarding wire.

That sounds good enough for me.

The amp that I'm going to build is a 2 X 12" combo. I think I hear what you are saying, expect trouble with the tubes in time. Perhaps RFT NOS tube could be good in this amp?

Oh yeah, I bought my tubes from KCA as I thought I'd give him a go.

Yours Sincerely

Mark Abbott.