All our preamp tubes are stringently tested for noise and microphonics using Amplitrex testers driving an external amp. There is no extra charge for low noise and microphonics testing like with other tube vendors. Additionally the tubes undergo a battery of tests for basic performance characteristics and faults such as: Emissions, Transconductance,H-K and Grid leakage, etc... If a tube does not pass our strict performance criteria it's tossed or sent back to JJ Electronic for evaluation.
The High Gain selection is for players trying to squeeze out every bit of overdrive they can get. On average these will give you about 10-15% more gain than our standard selected tubes. This is not going to turn your Blues Junior into a JCM800, but it is noticeable.
The JJ ECC83S utilizes a historically recognizable short plate design and spiral filament. This contributes to the tubes inherently low noise flow and resistance to mechanical noise and microphonics. This makes them ideal for combo applications and high gain stages.
Tonally these tubes have a very even voice with a dense harmonic structure when overdriven. Compared to other 12AX7 types this gives them a warmer and thicker tone. This also makes them very versatile and a great overall platform. If you're looking for a neutral voicing with tight dynamics this is where you should be.
