Recommendations for 6ca4

[CopperWizard]

The 6ca4 in my Magnavox 8601-20 looked like it was arching inside after a drop on the carpet. I tapped on it gently a few times while on and it seemed to repeat the purple light show as if something were loose inside. Then it went back to normal and has worked fine now for about a week. I'd like to order a replacement... Any recommendations on which brand? I'm running Sylvania black plate 6BQ5's and a Mullard 6EU7. The suspect rectifier in there now is a Sylvania. Thanks for any suggestions!

 

[thorpej]

Electro-Harmonix makes a 6CA4, and it's $15 from Antique Electronics Supply. JJ also makes a 6CA4 / EZ81 that's $12 from the same vendor. Either will be perfectly fine.

 

[maxhifi]

I've had good luck with RCA, and Mullard. Never tried new production of this type.

This tube packs a lot into a small bottle, so you definitely want something good quality. Hopefully new production tubes are up to the task.

 

[primosounds]

Mullards were made to a high standard. I have never found a bad one that just "wore out". But, almost all the others were just as reliable. RCA, Sylvania, GE and other vintage tubes are still running strong for the most part.

 

[CopperWizard]

Any ideas what the purple light show in the tube could have been? I think I saw some particles fall inside while it was happening. Ill get a Mullard if I can find one affordable, I read that they came out with the first EZ81.