Differences Between Chinese and Russia 6AS7 Tubes

[rhopkins]

Hi,

This one actually comes from another member of my listening group. He is comparing the current Chinese version to the Russian version of the 6AS7. He has noticed that the construction of the tubes varies slightly with a different base and other minor construction observations. He is currently testing a batch of them to see if one is different from the other and if any generalizations can be made.

Has anyone out there formed any opinions on the differences between the tubes? We have noticed that the pricing of the Russian tubes has been increasing. Not entirely sure why.

Any thoughts?

[Steve Williams]

But so also aren't the Chinese tubes becoming much better

[rhopkins]

I've heard that they are getting better and I've also heard that the price remains fixed whereas the Russian tubes fluctuate a bit more. Supply of Russian tubes is a little patchy too, at least locally.

[rhopkins]

We have been doing some testing with both types of tubes and there is little difference. If anything, the Chinese tubes appear to be more consistent and therefore, may be of superior quality. They also sell for less money around here so I'm hard pressed to see a downside...