Bottlehead Forum

Bottlehead Kits => S.E.X. Kit => Topic started by: proud indian on January 11, 2013, 09:57:28 PM

Title: tube dampers
Post by: proud indian on January 11, 2013, 09:57:28 PM
I haven't seen any tube dampers on any of the SEX pics, nor on any topic. Does this mean that it is not required/ has any benefit?


shreekant :)
Title: Re: tube dampers
Post by: tsingle999 on January 12, 2013, 02:49:30 AM
I tried pearl tube coolers on my SEX amp and while they looked cool I didnt notice any change in the sound. Then I tried Mapleshade brass tube dampers and they helped the sound to my ears. They have crushed a few tubes though (they dont make them anymore - he makes brass tophats now but not in the 6dn7 size). I have tried herbies on 45's and 300b's but didnt notice a difference. This is a photo of the Pomme de Terre du Gourmet Amp with the tube dampers which are the same size dampers as the SEX. My take is it might make some difference but not a huge one - you would just have to try some out...
Title: Re: tube dampers
Post by: proud indian on January 12, 2013, 06:26:05 AM
Thanks. That is just what I too figured. I did put in some O rings and a a diy damper, but did not find positive results. In fact, I thought it sounded better without them. That's the reason of this thread. Maybe some more may add their thoughts/experience.

shreekant :)
Title: Re: tube dampers
Post by: Paul Joppa on January 12, 2013, 07:20:07 AM
The 6DN7 is a pretty tough tube, but a tube cooler would (statistically) extend its life even further. It does run at maximum dissipation in the SEX amp.
Title: Re: tube dampers
Post by: coca on January 12, 2013, 01:01:39 PM
I have used Herbies on several different amps, plus my CD player with a lot of success.

Bernie.
Title: Re: tube dampers
Post by: 4krow on January 12, 2013, 01:10:43 PM
I tried pearl tube coolers on my SEX amp and while they looked cool I didnt notice any change in the sound. Then I tried Mapleshade brass tube dampers and they helped the sound to my ears. They have crushed a few tubes though (they dont make them anymore - he makes brass tophats now but not in the 6dn7 size). I have tried herbies on 45's and 300b's but didnt notice a difference. This is a photo of the Pomme de Terre du Gourmet Amp with the tube dampers which are the same size dampers as the SEX. My take is it might make some difference but not a huge one - you would just have to try some out...

I also am a fan of the Mapleshade product, but I see that they don't offer them anymore. With the price of metals going up, it would be a lot of money to buy them now a days.