Herbert tube suggestions

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sdhnc123

sdhnc123

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When I'm playing riffs at LOUD VOLUMES, I get a great tone from the Herbert. However, when I play leads at LOUD volumes, the EL34s are breaking up in a way which is harsh on the ears (ice pick!!). I'm using Seymour Duncan Blackouts (AHB1) and Vintage30s (closed-back cabinet) . I've tried changing settings (bass, mid, treble, midcut) and I'm not satisfied with the lead tone. So, I need some suggestions for power tubes that will smooth out the lead tones at LOUD VOLUMES.

I am thinking that a combination of 6L6s with the stock EL34s will smooth out the tone for leads. Does anyone recommend 6550 or KT88 for my situation? What would be the best combination of tubes for my situation?

Thanks. :rock:
 
Nice font color.

I know some Herbsters on deck use 4xEL34 + 2x6550 or 2xEL34 + 4x6550. Apparently to tame the very biz you're talking about...

Just sayin',
V.
 
we should make a Sticky Thread on the top of the forum called TUBES
 
Thanks everyone.
I'm going to try the following tubes in the Herbert:

4 SED "C" 6L6s
2 Tung Sol 6L6s

I experienced great results when I put 4 SED "C" 6L6s in the VH4S, so I thought I should try the same in the Herbert. The SED will arrive later this week. I'll post again to comment on how it sounds.

I'll order some 6550s so I can try them out also. :cheers:
 
So I've tried different combinations of 6L6s, KT77s, and EL34s.

My favorite combination:
SED "C" 6L6
Tung Sol 6L6
Ruby EL34

JJ KT77s didn't sound great in this amp.

Six Ruby EL34s results in solos being too "ice-picky". The high-gain crunch on the lower strings is especially good with all EL34s when playing loud. Clean tones are not that great with all EL34s.

Six 6L6s results in smoother solos. The high-gain lacks the awesome crunch that EL34s deliver at loud volumes. Clean tones are great though.

Four 6L6s and two EL34s results in smoother solos and a great high-gain crunch at loud volumes. The cleans are excellent with this combination of tubes.


I have not tried KT88s or 6550s in the Herbert. I'll try them one day, but I'm loving this tube combination for now.
 
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