ECC83/TELEFUNKEN
The classic German low noise ECC83 which provided a superb rich sound stage. The valve was electrically
well balanced but did not have mid range honk or bite of the Mullard ECC83. The midrange detail of the
m8137 also left the tele in the shade when we used it in an audio test. The valve shares all the Siemens
strong points and does everything exceptionally well. Clarity is perfect with no fuzz or bass distortion. This is
an all-time classic valve and has a very high regard in audio circles.
ECC83/12AX7 CHINESE
This valve tended to be fitted by all the major amp manufactures when it was in production. On the plus side
the valves have good gain and low microphonics, which suited the Boogie and the Marshall amps . The
drawback is its complete lack of tone. This gave the wasp in a jam jar trade mark sounds. The treble was
fizzy and the bass response gave a hazy distortion. The music sounded like a vale was placed in front of the
speaker. The valves also after small amounts of gigging tended to sound harsh and brittle. Therefore we do
not recommend this type. (The latest Chinese 12AX7C made on new tooling is currently under test and has
shown some positive results at Westwood Music.)
ECC83/12AX7WA G.E
This is a rugged American military spec valve of immense quality. This is the same valve that was standard
in 70's Fenders. The G.E valve is famous for it's big crisp sound stage and bright top end response which
breathes life into Fenders. This valve really supplied that authentic Fender twang. The valve was brighter
than the other American valves and also worked really well in the vox by giving it a clearer top end
response. When the valve distorts it has a rich harmonic feel and chime. Even under heavy Boogie
distortion the bass and mid range detail was also superb. Thoroughly recommended.
Pour avoir une idée des prix pratiqués :
http://www.watfordvalves.com/
