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sovtek 12AX7LPS
sovtek 12AX7LPS
Regular price
R 500.00 ZAR
Regular price
Sale price
R 500.00 ZAR
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Low stock: 3 left
Key Features & Characteristics
- Spiral Filament: Designed with an "S" spiral filament to dramatically reduce AC heater hum, making it a popular choice for high-end audio and sensitive phono preamps. [1, 2, 3]
- Sound Profile: Offers a full-bodied, warm vintage tone with smooth highs, a detailed midband, and well-balanced bass response that rivals classic 1950s long-plate designs (such as Mullard and Philips). [1, 2]
- High Gain & Linear Response: High amplification factor (μ = 100) with low noise and a clean, linear signal output. [1, 2, 3]
Common Applications & Best Uses
- Phase Inverter (PI): Frequently chosen as a phase inverter tube in guitar amplifiers (such as Marshall, Peavey, and Mesa Boogie models) for its strong, stable output and clarity. [1, 2]
- Hi-Fi & Phono Preamps: Widely used in home audio preamplifiers and phono stages where low hum and a wide 3D soundstage are desired. [1, 2, 3]
Limitations & Considerations
- Microphonics in Combo Amps: Because of the physical size of the long ribbed plates, the 12AX7LPS is more prone to microphonics (ringing or feedback caused by mechanical vibration). It is generally not recommended for high-volume, compact combo guitar amplifiers where the tube is subjected to heavy physical shaking. [1, 2, 3]
- Cathode Follower Stages: It has a lower cathode-to-heater voltage tolerance compared to some other 12AX7 variants and is generally unsuited for high-voltage cathode follower positions in certain guitar amp circuits. [1]
- Filament Visuals: The spiral filament is tightly encased inside the plate structure, meaning the tube often looks like it is barely "lighting up" during normal operation. [1, 2]
Comparison: Sovtek 12AX7LPS vs. Other Popular 12AX7 Variants
| Tube Model | Best Suited For | Key Strength | Main Drawback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sovtek 12AX7LPS | Phase inverters, hi-fi, phono preamps | Spiral filament cuts AC hum; warm, linear long-plate sound | Prone to microphonics in high-vibration combo amps |
| Sovtek 12AX7WA / WB | High-vibration guitar combo amps | Rugged, short-plate build; very low microphonics | Less "open" or vintage long-plate warmth |
| JJ ECC83S | General guitar amp overdrive/gain stages | Thick, aggressive crunch and reliable short-plate design | Darker or tighter top-end compared to long plates |
| Tung-Sol 12AX7 | Modern and vintage guitar/audio preamps | Rich harmonics, dynamic response, and tight low-end | Can be priced slightly higher |
Product features
Product features
Materials and care
Materials and care
Merchandising tips
Merchandising tips
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