Author Topic: Switching to KT88's  (Read 2988 times)

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Offline stradivari310

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Switching to KT88's
« on: June 12, 2013, 10:49:31 am »
Hey, glad to see this forum is back up and running!

I have a Sunn A212 combo and one of the 6550s failed recently because it fell out of its socket. Since I had to replace the tubes anyway, I decided I wanted to switch to KT88s so I ordered a pair of JJs and some spring retainers so that they stay in place. I am also going to tighten up the sockets if I can. My main question is regarding biasing. I know 6550s and KT88s are fairly similar. Do I have to rebias the amp or can I get away with it as is? Thanks!

Offline EdBass

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Re: Switching to KT88's
« Reply #1 on: June 12, 2013, 11:58:30 am »
KT88's are pretty much a drop in replacement for 6550's in most circuits, and your Sunn is no exception.
But that said, I'd check the bias even if I were replacing the 6550's with 6550's.
In fact, to me checking the bias is like changing the oil in your car, something that is part of routine maintenance whether or not you change output tubes. Things can drift, tubes can change as they age, ect., and maintaining proper bias is probably the easiest way to compensate for these changes and keep your amp running strong.

Of course, also like your car it comes down to practicality; I suppose the best thing for engine life would be to change your oil every morning before you left the house, but that isn't necessary or very practical. Ditto for checking your bias.
Also like only changing the oil in your car every 15-20K miles with the cheapest 30W available your car might be fine, just as your bias might be fine forever if you never check it.

I'd say it's your call; but it's easier to check/adjust your particular amp's bias than it is to change your car's oil. All you need is a cheap multimeter and a thin bladed screw driver.
Of course You can get much more elaborate about it, but if you are showing or can adjust it to around -55V with those simple tools you are likely hunky dory.
If you can't... Find a tech who can!
Good Luck!

Offline stradivari310

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Re: Switching to KT88's
« Reply #2 on: June 12, 2013, 12:46:16 pm »
Thanks Ed. I have a meter and am familiar with biasing, but I just wasn't sure if it was necessary in this case. I'll be sure to check it.