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Tube rolling 12AX7As

I just acquired a McIntosh C2300 preamp that is currently being shipped to me. This is my first venture into tube gear. I see the owners manual states that this preamp uses 12AX7A tubes. Are those tubes interchangeable with 12AX7s? For tube rolling, do I have to make sure I swap out for ONLY 12AX7As?

I ask because from everything I have read and researched, the Mac stock tubes are considered mediocre compared to what is available out there as a substitute. Thanks in advance for the replies.
brad34695
knghifi
1,668 posts
 
Telefunken 12ax7 ribbed plates. Deep pocket, Telefunken ecc803s.
wolf_garcia
6,695 posts
 
The Giant Killing Psvane 12AX7T-II tubes are best bought from a retailer (Canada?) as direct China dealers can be annoying. A tip.
hifigeek1
770 posts
 
I like the JJ 803S
wrm57
1,040 posts
 
I'll echo Wolf_garcia in recommending the Psvanes. When I owned the C2300 they were my favorite, and I rolled in plenty of NOS and new production 12AX7. RCA black long-plates from the '50s were also nice in that pre-amp, but they're a bit pricier and harder to source.
miner42
709 posts
 
I, too, use the Psvanes in my C2300. Grant Fidleity is the outfit I would purchase them from. Get the higher grade tubes.
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