I broke the guide post on one of the 6L6 tubes in my trust Fender Hot Rod Deluxe awhile back, and even though the tube still worked just fine, I used it as an excuse to get a new set of power tubes. So after doing a search around the Internet for a new set of 6L6’s, I found myself on Brent Jesse Recording’s (audiotubes.com) site, looking for some NOS replacements for the JJ’s I had in there.
Not knowing what to purchase, I called Brent up, and asked for his recommendation. Surprisingly enough, he recommended a set of Groove Tubes. I said, “Groove Tubes? I can’t stand ’em.” But Brent explained that these particular Groove Tubes were not the imported, relabeled stuff from Russia or China. They’re re-issues of RCA and GE black plates made from NOS materials and constructed here in the US. Intriguing. I’ve purchase a few sets of tubes from Brent in the past, and he has never steered me wrong, so I decided to take a chance and get a pair.
The tubes arrived yesterday so of course, I just had to install them. What’s the verdict? They sound absolutely KILLER! The big test for me – especially with NOS tubes – is to run them full out to see how they break up. The problem I’ve had with late model power tubes in general (but especially with 6L6’s) is that they feel stiff and the breakup can be a bit harsh.
To me, NOS tubes have always felt much more smooth and dynamic. These Groove Tubes tubes are a huge exception to late model tubes. I can’t believe just how nicely these re-issues break up! The distortion is creamy smooth and slightly compressed with nice bloom and sustain without being too squishy – just how I like it! Caveat: They’re not cheap. These tubes are $80 for a matched pair, but they’re worth every penny! I just ordered a second set for spares since these tubes are limited quantity. They may not necessarily be NOS tubes, but as they’re made with NOS materials, there is definitely a limit. So if you’re looking for new production tubes that sound absolutely fantastic, you gotta check these out!
A word on the Fender Hot Rod Deluxe
It’s my contention that the Fender Hot Rod Deluxe is one of the most underrated amps on the market. Okay, I admit it: Stock it doesn’t sound all that good. But with the right tubes and the right speaker, it can sound incredible! Granted, a year or two ago, I wouldn’t have even considered buying this amp because of the huge price hike. I got mine on special for something like $550 in a blowout sale a few years ago. But the prices aren’t all that bad now. They’ve come down significantly from their nearly $900 price tag, and you can find them for around $649. Admittedly, it’ll probably cost $300-$400 more in tubes and replacement speaker, but what you get is an AWESOME amp. I’ll have clips in a few days.
Guitar Gear 
You are the man…
the man with a serious addiction.. I don’t normally do NOS tubes myself but have found that one guys bright and chimey is another guys sterile and lifeless. Your rave of these tubes makes me want to go try some.. Thanks for fueling MY addiction…
Glad I could help! HA!
PS,,
I did read the part where you explain that these are not NOS but limited numbers can be made.. That’s why I don’t do NOS.. I”d hate to get “that sound” and not be able to
reproduce it….
My thought is that my power tubes – at least for that particular amp – have lasted four years, and they’re still functional, though the center post on one is busted. If I have a couple of sets of matched pairs, then I’m good for at least 10 years.
But you’re right about NOS, which is why when you go that route, you can’t just buy a single replacement set; you have to get one or two backup sets, and that’s where NOS gets expensive. And as far as tone is concerned, I actually don’t hear too much of a tonal difference between new production and NOS. But where NOS tubes really stand apart is in the dynamics and feel departments. Just nothing like ’em!