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Best tube dampers that you have used

I currently have a Thor Audio monoblocks TP-150, 8  EL-34's Sovtek tubes for each amp.
Was wondering in anyone's experience will tube dampers improve the sound quality.
Am hesitant to proceed as I have read that  tube dampers can melt from the heat of the tubes and sometimes
cause smoke. Any thoughts would be appreciated.  
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cleeds
5,943 posts
 
kjl1065
I have read that tube dampers can melt from the heat of the tubes and sometimes cause smoke.
Who's made that claim? I've never heard of it happening.
ebm
9,311 posts
 
Herbies HAL 03s  are for very hot output tubes and they will not melt or deform .They will improve the sound as well.Enjoy!!
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
I've used Herbies for small and large power tubes and, frankly, I honestly can't tell the difference. I've gone back and forth a few times, no difference. I leave em off now so as not to compromise cooling in any way.
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rcprince
3,070 posts
 
For small octal tubes Andy Bouwman of Vintage Tube Services made some very heavy brass dampers that were extremely effective.  Not sure that he still makes them, you should check with him.  I might be selling mine at some point, I have more than I need. 
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