Rectifier tubes?

Ecc. - I actually have 5 recs., two new ones (both a bit rough sounding) and three NOS all of which "stomp on" the new new tubes. My favorite of these in order are:

1) Sylvania - 1943
2) RCA - 1955
3) Ken Rad - 1940s

I'm afraid the RCA is nearing it's end, though. It arrived in used condition and was not NOS as advertised. However, it has provided wonderful music for the last 2 years and I don't regret the $85.00 spent.

Unfortunately, the Air Tight does not have a soft start feature so I have a shelf full of input and rectifiers tubes. However, I'm still using the WE 300B output tubes that came with amp three years ago and they spec out fine, at least by my amp's own bias meter.

Hi Tomryan. Forget about changing out your rectifier as both the Sylvania and Kenrad 5u4g's are terrific and should last a long time. While I have never had the pleasure of hearing the Air Tight 300b with the Western Electric tubes in it, after hearing a pair of their 2's. I am most certain it would be something very special indeed.

I may try the Sophia version just for fun but am still using the RCA which sounded just fine last night. I will use it until finding someone for testing and always have the other two for replacements. Why can't new tubes be made like the old ones? Anyone know?

You should try out the U52 (same version as 5U4) Osram or BVA as I used two pairs for my Silver Eagle Audio Signature monoblocks.

The original Western Electric 274B is the king of all 5U4G rectifiers. The Sophia exhibits some of the traits. It is open and extended and strong in the bass. The mesh version may even be better than the standard one. It is priced fairly for a very well made and robust tube.