Hoffman Amplifiers Tube Amplifier Forum

Amp Stuff => AmpTools/Tech Tips => Topic started by: roadhog96 on March 09, 2009, 11:33:19 am

Title: Which is better?
Post by: roadhog96 on March 09, 2009, 11:33:19 am
After searching what seems to be forever for a replacement 8-pin tube socket for my vintage blackface Fender amp I was unable to find a replacement that matches the originals exactly. I found one that was made out of the original material which I believe was Phenolic, sometimes referred to as Bakelite, but the metal mounting flange was shaped different and the pin holes had different style holes. I also found one that matches the original style almost perfect, same style metal mounting flange, pin hole shaped the same as the originals, but was made out of ceramic. Both of these were advertised as being an exact replacement for this amp with the same dimensions and required chassis hole. Now I know either one would do the job, but seeing how neither one is an exact replacement, maybe it would be better to use the one that offers the best performance overall. Anyone have any thoughts on which one is the better of the two, Ceramic or Phenolic?
Title: Re: Which is better?
Post by: tubesornothing on March 09, 2009, 04:20:53 pm
I find that with some cheap ceramics, the pins don't hold the tube that well.  I sure like belton sockets.
Title: Re: Which is better?
Post by: roadhog96 on March 09, 2009, 07:49:54 pm
Quote from: tubesornothing on March 09, 2009, 04:20:53 pm
I find that with some cheap ceramics, the pins don't hold the tube that well.  I sure like belton sockets.
Are these the cheap ceramic ones your refering to?
Title: Re: Which is better?
Post by: billcreller on March 10, 2009, 09:58:08 pm
Those are Doug's, and I have found them to work great.
Title: Re: Which is better?
Post by: roadhog96 on March 11, 2009, 04:19:15 pm
Quote from: billcreller on March 10, 2009, 09:58:08 pm
Those are Doug's, and I have found them to work great.
How much personal experience have you had with these on your own amp or amps? Do they hold up well over time. Does the heat effect the pins? Any problems at all?