116X and the 6A3 tube

[BDM]

Well, I already know my set has weak tubes, in fact one is very weak. Anyhow I used to purchase my tubes from a gent in Ohio (Bill or Bob?), Pick-a-Tube I believe. Heck it's been awhile. Anyhow suggestions on were to purchase them?

[Ron Ramirez]

Bob Dobush at Find A Tube.

http://www.findatube.com/

Whenever I need tubes, I usually contact Bob first...great prices, great service, no complaints. A good guy to deal with.

Jim Cross at Vacuum Tubes, Inc. (who used to live in Ohio) is another honest seller.
http://www.vacuumtubesinc.com/

When it comes to tubes, the Ohioans are the good guys...not that the others are bad, only that I've had personal experience buying from both and can recommend either one.

[BDM]

Bob would be the guy, thanks Ron.

[Phlogiston]

Comrade, the Russians now make 2A3 for your fine American radio.

http://www.tubedepot.com/so-2a3.html
I think there is a Chinese version as well. Available at K-mart, Martha Stewart brand I think.

But, I would look for a used American one (6A3).

[Ron Ramirez]

The same seller also has Sovtek 6A3 tubes. Sold as a matched pair only, $129.95 for the pair.

http://tubedepot.com/so-6a3.html

Don't forget your Tube Cube for your nice, new, expensive Sovtek tubes.

...or, buy two 6A3 tubes from Findatube.com for $28.00 each NOS, or $18.00 each used.

Hmmm...new Sovtek for $129.95 or NOS from Bob for $56.00?

Ask Charlie what he thinks about this choice:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=end...FKfQN5Y7Ds

[7estatdef]

Wow!
Bob does have some very good prices on both new and used. Never have bought tubes from him but he is a good source for Sam's folders. Have gotten some TV folders from him over the years. Good guy and fast service.
Terry

[Phlogiston]

Picture of Bob watching aliens land starship in his back yard:


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[BDM]

LOL.... I met Bob about 5/6 years ago at an on-site auction. Naturally plenty of tubes to be auctioned for everyone... Nice guy I did see the Russian versions. But I cannot bring myself to stuff those in one of my fine American made Philco's (or any American radio for that matter). If that's all there was or the American made versions hit $250 a tube, I'll consider it.

[7estatdef]

From what I've heard from some of my ham buddies the Russian tube are ok but the Chinese jobs are not very good. I'd stay away from them. Agree with Ron a good pair of used US tubes is your best and cheaper way to go. The reliability will the best.
GL and hold on to your wallet.
Terry

[TA Forbes]

I have used Bob several times and he is great to deal with. His prices for 6A3s, 6L6s, and 6B4s are better than what you will find on eBay. Plus his tube for sale listing is huge.