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EQUIPMENT FORUMS >> ZP3 / ZMC1,2,3 >> Is tube suppose to sit so close to transformer?
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Message started by back2vinyl on 02/06/18 at 14:41:42

Title: Is tube suppose to sit so close to transformer?
Post by back2vinyl on 02/06/18 at 14:41:42

On my newly delivered Zp3, the 4th tube in (5u4) I believe it is called, sits 2/16" away from the transformer…This normal placement? I was just curious as it's the only tube that really gets hot. I also notice this tube doesn't fit as tight as the other tubes? Other than those two concerns I am quit pleased with the results I am getting.

Title: Re: Is tube suppose to sit so close to transformer?
Post by Archie on 02/06/18 at 17:22:44

I'm sure it's fine. My 5UG is about 3/8" from the transformer cover but your tube sounds like it's bigger. Did Steve send you the Valve Art 274B tube? They are big.

Title: Re: Is tube suppose to sit so close to transformer?
Post by back2vinyl on 02/06/18 at 17:42:49

im not sure to be honest….but it is big….Have only listened to less than ten lp's so far, but Im liking it…Id like to get some back up tubes soon just in case one tube goes but the options give me a headache.

Title: Re: Is tube suppose to sit so close to transformer?
Post by Archie on 02/06/18 at 18:55:45

I use old stock Raytheon and RCA tubes in my ZP3 and l have liked them all. The only tube I didn't like was a new Mullard 12AX7. I buy on ebay and have had good luck without spending ridiculous amounts. I never had a problem with Steve's stock tubes either. I'm sure I'm not as discerning as many though.

Title: Re: Is tube suppose to sit so close to transformer?
Post by back2vinyl on 02/06/18 at 19:56:22

I don't have the ear nor am I OCD to be too discerning myself. I tell a nice system when I hear it but not sure if I changed out one tube to another I would hear the difference unless it was a bad tube of course

Title: Re: Is tube suppose to sit so close to transformer?
Post by Archie on 02/07/18 at 00:01:48

I find that over time I get the feeling when something is off. On first listen, things always sound good to me -- unless it's something faulty. Recently I had a tube in the 12AU7 place that initially sounded great but over time I was bothered by unpleasant treble. I think I'm like you in just enjoying playing music.

Title: Re: Is tube suppose to sit so close to transformer?
Post by back2vinyl on 02/07/18 at 00:05:50

So here is the million dollar question. How did you know it was that tube position that was faulty?

Title: Re: Is tube suppose to sit so close to transformer?
Post by Archie on 02/07/18 at 01:11:45

Quote:

So here is the million dollar question. How did you know it was that tube position that was faulty?

I was tube rolling and I had only changed the one tube. What is harder to understand was that the same tube from a different manufacturer sounded better.