Tube Retainers for 6550s

[Zaphod B]

I replaced the EL34 tubes on one side of my RT2/50 with 6550s (thanks again, Buckeyedog - they're still sounding great!) but I had to remove the tube retainers since the base on the 6550 is so much larger than the EL34.

I have no problem with leaving them in there with no retainers as long as I have a some confidence that they're not going anywhere. Has anyone had an issue with losing tubes from their RT2/50s when retainers aren't used?

Thanks!

 

[Mailman1971]

I had the same problem when I replaced the EL34's to KT88's. I guess as long as its not being moved around too much it shouldnt be a problem. I didnt have any issues.

 

[Zaphod B]

Cool, thanx.

 

[fuzzyguitars]

i think that you can purchase tube retainers for large base tubes, try mojotone.

 

[aeroic]

I personally never use the tube retainers on any tube. But that's me. Having said that, 6550s have never fallen out of my amp, either sitting there or during transport!!

Make sure you do put the screws back in though, as they help stabilize the tube sockets. That's a must...but tube retainers aren't really that needed, especially for 6550s IMHO.

Eric

 

[jmgman69]

I personally never use the tube retainers on any tube. But that's me. Having said that, 6550s have never fallen out of my amp, either sitting there or during transport!!

Make sure you do put the screws back in though, as they help stabilize the tube sockets. That's a must...but tube retainers aren't really that needed, especially for 6550s IMHO.

Eric

This

 

[3 Mile Stone]

Okay that seems to answer the OP question, so let me now hi-jack the thread to general 6550 questions.

What is it you guys like about them?
Are they louder, clearer, bell like tones, big low end, tight low end or what? What's going on with those 6550s that you are digging so much.


Thinking about trying some.

 

[aeroic]

Okay that seems to answer the OP question, so let me now hi-jack the thread to general 6550 questions.

What is it you guys like about them?
Are they louder, clearer, bell like tones, big low end, tight low end or what? What's going on with those 6550s that you are digging so much.


Thinking about trying some.

Bigger, tighter low end...warmer mids that aren't as forward as a EL34, but are more buttery and growly, and sparkling top end that isn't shrill or harsh.

If you are going to put them in a Mod50, get the Tung Sol 6550s. They are the best 6550 for the Mod50 specifically IMHO. Svetlana 6550s are still my all time favorite.

Eric