The sunn Forum

Sunn Musical Equipment => DIY => Topic started by: shibbz on January 23, 2012, 11:33:18 pm

Title: tube socket recommendation?
Post by: shibbz on January 23, 2012, 11:33:18 pm

I'd like to replace the tube sockets on my 100s.
Any recommendations?
I don't know if there's much difference between different sockets, just curious.

Title: Re: tube socket recommendation?
Post by: loudthud on January 24, 2012, 01:42:37 pm

The original octal sockets were made by Amperex I believe. They used a keyed hole and were held in place by a d@%&#d wavy washer, you can't see the key until you get the old socket removed. Amperex made a ceramic socket that fit the same hole. You might be able to find some used ones at a surplus store if you are lucky. Don't worry if the contacts look black. They are silver plated. Beyond that there are ceramic sockets that are currently made in China. You will have to improvise the mounting and drill a couple of holes.

Title: Re: tube socket recommendation?
Post by: shibbz on January 25, 2012, 12:13:26 am

Awesome, thanks for the info!
I'm wanting to replace the sockets because one day one tube didn't light.
A tiny wiggle, and it was fine, but I can imagine at "rock volume" something could get shaken loose.
Think the addition of a tube retainers would help?
Or are replacement tube retainers inevitable with amps of this age?

Title: Re: tube socket recommendation?
Post by: jaywalker on April 21, 2012, 11:31:23 am

I know this is a bit late but did you try retensioning the power tube sockets and spritzing the preamp tube sockets with deoxit? Also hit the wire connections with the soldering iron for a re-flow.

Be sure to observe safety precautions; unplug amp, drain caps etc.