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Help with re-tubing an ARC VT100 MkII

It's now time for me to retube my Audio Research VT100 MkII. It appears that it's no big deal, if I only want to retube the power tubes. However, I think its time to retube the input tubes as well.

Can anyone offer any advise as to:
1) Should I just spend the reported $700-$800 (seems expensive to me) and send it to ARC?
2) Can anyone offer an alternative to No.1 (I don't know anyone here in Memphis, TN that could do it)
3) Any suggestions as to what brands/types of tubes to replace the old ones?

In advance, thank you!

Louis
louisl
rlips
105 posts
 
Hi,

This might be helpful:

http://mycollins.net/audio/artube1.html
ilkwon88
8 posts
 
I would let the ARC do it if you are going to replace the input tubes as well. Output tubes are easy to replace and bias, but those input tube biasing is not easy.
If you are going to buy all those (perfectly) matched tubes, it will cost $400 anyway. If you send it to ARC, they will not only do it correctly but also check all the other specs and do the necessary maintenance.
louisl OP
185 posts
 
I just spoke with Leonard at ARC. Here's the breakdown on charges...

$150 a match pr. * 4 = $600
$30 a piece for the inputs tubes * 8 = $240
Roughly $80 for labor (one hour) = $80
Subtotal = $920
Shipping (round trip) roughly $100
Total cost for ARC to retube =$1,020

Anyone think this is a bit on the high side?
Post removed 
gmorris
351 posts
 
Jea48

I retubed my VT100 MKII using the instructions above from Collins. A matched octet(8) from Upscale audio will cost about $240. A set of 8 low noise input tubes 6H23 (6922) will cost about $200. Total $420 plus shipping. You may want to speak to kevin Deal at Upscale. You must use input tubes with close tolerances.
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