6V6S

The JJ 6V6S is a modern replacement for all 6V6 applications. This tube is a true purpose built 6V6 that most closely resembles the original Westinghouse box plate 6V6GTA design. This construction style results in a very robust tube with improved voltage handling, and a sound that tends to be a little bigger and more open than the oval/round plate variations. Overall the JJ 6V6S captures the classic 6V6 traits with a tighter low end response and very smooth but punchy overdriven tones.

These tubes can be used in applications up to 500VDC on the plates. In lots of EL34 and 6L6 amps the JJ 6V6 can be used as a lower power substitute. In many cases all that’s required for this is a simple bias adjustment. If you’re unsure about your application please contact us!

Here’s the story: The JJ 6V6S was built per our request. We started asking JJ to produce a 6V6 back in 2002, and in late 2003 the JJ 6V6S became a reality. Aside from having to sound great and stay true to form with classic 6V6’s, we requested that it also be able to handle increased plate voltages up to 500VDC reliably. This is a tall order but JJ nailed it right out of the gate. This birthed a whole new option for many 6L6 and EL34 players that had been looking for a lower power substitute. We use these as EL34 and 6L6 substitutes in many applications. Especially popular in Plexi style builds, Bassmans and Wreck circuits.

This is one of Bob’s personal favorite 6V6’s. In his words “They have an amazing low frequency extension without getting boomy, and a high end much like an RCA until they get into saturation where they are more like the old Sylvania 6V6’s, only fuller and a bit more focused. Absolutely wonderful in Deluxe Reverbs!”

For combo applications we also have a proprietary, modified version of the 6V6S noted as the “6V6S-DM”. DM is short for Double Mica which reflects the extra layer of Mica used to reinforce the plate structure against the bottle. This construction difference all but eliminates tube rattle in combo amps.

After a 24 hour burn in all power tubes are tested for noise and matched at multiple operating points for plate current (± one milliamp) and transconductance. Please leave us a note in the comments section as to what amp they’re going into and or if you’re looking for a specific grade.