Rectifier tubes?


I have an Air Tight HTM-300 amp which has tube rectification. I've rolled a number of NOS types over the last three years and am wondering two things: 1) How long a life do these tubes have, in general, and 2) Any suggestions for good rec. tubes (5U4GB) in this amp or in general? I'd especially be interested in new tubes as NOS are hard to get and are iffy.
tomryan
Jake 42 - 5U4G is rated for 225ma; 5U4GB for 275ma. I don't have my Tube manual here; but I think the GB may be rated for a higher voltage also. Voltage sag under load may be slightly different too. A GB can be subbed for a G, but you need to check circuit demands before subbing a G for a GB.
I don't know where Tomryan buy 5U4GB, most of them are under $15 each on ebay. I got them as low as $5
Hi Tom Ryan. Most Nos 5au4's and subs are readibly available, easy to source and relatively inexpensive. If you can ascertain the voltage requirements of the rectifier in the airtight, you have many options available to you. Rectifiers "DO" make a difference and in many circuits... it can even be quite dramatic. The most important parameter here is to make sure each side of a full wave rectifier is tightly matched and the tube itself should test no less than 95%.Good Subs for a 5au4 would include.... 5aw4,5ax4,5t4, 5v4, 5y3,5z4,5as4,,5931 and their euro equivalents. I like the old st shaped 5v4g in particular here for a sub. Hope this helps.
Absolutely. Thanks, Ecclectique and everyone else. I have four different rec. tubes and each makes the amp sound different and two make it sound better. Now I just need to find someone local (Southeast Michigan area) who has a tube tester I can hire to find out what condition they're in.
tomryan,
The 274B is most likely a drop in, but there are instances where it is not viable. It comes on quicker than the 5U4. The folks at Sophia can help with that advice. I use a softstart with my stuff, so it is not an issue.