Vacuum Tube Display Case

Sure. Tube sockets screwed into the wood could work nicely. They would actually let you experiment with placement before you attached them to the wood permanently; a big advantage over drilling holes.

Also, check to see if there any local hardwood or woodworking suppliers in your area. You might be able to find some pieces of truly beautiful wood to use as a base at a modest price.

It might be worthwhile emailing one of the officers of the Tube Collectors Association and asking their advice, and if they can point you to a supplier of suitable mounting bases and/or display cases.

For storage, as opposed to display, you can find suitable egg-crate tube boxes at Antique Electronic Supply. Click on "vacuum tube accessories" in the menu at the left, and then on "boxes and crating."

If you contact one of the Tube Collectors Association people, let us know what they have to say!

Regards,
-- Al

The next time you get a delivery - keep the box!

I use the expanding wood trays used for storing silverware in drawers. I use cardboard inserts in the individual sections to separate tube type/brands etc. You can find these at most any store that sells kitchen supplies or big box stores like Costco etc. Very efficient and will hold a lot of tubes which are easily identifiable.

Timing was good on this thread for me. I had mine scattered around in cardboard boxes like others. I just got myself organized by buying a wall mount adjustable open shelving unit at Home Depot. That was the easy part. I inventoried my collection with descriptions and (my) cost. Now that was work!

Mechans,
I have 6 or so bad tubes I can't seem to throw out either. Funny thing is that my bad tubes all came from (reputable) dealers. Some were received bad and some went bad soon after I got them. I was surprised about the amount of work involved to return a $100.00 bad tube once from a dealer. This guy was down right nasty to me. He said my tube testers are flawed. Hmmmm, the other tube he sent tested good as well as 3 more pairs I have here. Oh well, he did finally give in and send a replacement.