5Y3GT ( 5Z2P ) ZENITH Black Plates Foil Getter Tube Rectifier Made in USA
Description:
The 5Y3GT (5Z2P) ZENITH by RCA is an American-made full-wave rectifier, most likely attributable to the RCA factory, as suggested by the construction with black plates and foil getter , typical of high-level RCA productions of the period.
The exact chronological placement is likely the late 1940s , even if, in the absence of fully legible manufacturing codes, we prefer to maintain a prudent and historically correct position.
The tube was tested in our laboratory with Funke W19 , proving to be NOS-like , with excellent electrical behavior, very high output, and full operational stability. A rectifier of great appeal, both for use and for collection.
Sound Characteristics
The 5Y3GT RCA-style is appreciated for its balanced and musical sonic contribution, capable of positively influencing the overall character of the amplifier, especially in single-ended and vintage-inspired circuits.
Bass: Smooth yet well-controlled, with a rounded, natural response. The low range is full and coherent, without excess, ideal for systems that prioritize musicality and fluidity.
Mids: Warm, present, and very natural. Vocals acquire body and three-dimensionality, with a typically "American" vintage delivery, rich but never artificial.
Highs: Smooth and well-integrated, free of harshness. The highs are elegant and relaxing, making for a long and satisfying listen.
Dynamics: Progressive and fluid. The transient response is not aggressive, but well-controlled, promoting a sense of continuity and musical naturalness.
Soundstage: Stable and coherent soundstage, with good depth and believable instrument placement. The presentation is organic and well-proportioned.
🎧 Hi-Fi
Ideal for vintage hi-fi amplifiers, single-ended amplifiers, and projects inspired by classic American electronics. Particularly suitable for those seeking a warm, musical, and authentic sound.
🎸 Musical
It is also highly appreciated in instrument amplifiers, where it contributes to a softer response, with natural compression and great tonal pleasure.
🎯 Audiophile note
This 5Y3GT ZENITH by RCA combines historic charm, vintage construction with black plates and foil getters and NOS-like electrical performance, verified on Funke W19 .
A rectifier with authentic character, perfect for those who want the sound and reliability of the great post-war American productions, without compromise and without alarmism, but with real sonic and collectible value.
Test Results:
Valve tested on Funke W19 Tube Tester:
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Test Conditions: Va = 100V ; Vf = 5V
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Average 100%: Ia = 77.5 mA
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Test Result: VERY STRONG
Valve:
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Section 1: Ia = 80 mA
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Section 2: Ia = 79 mA
Additional Tests Performed:
- Microphonics: Standard. Tested and approved for use in hi-fi and guitar amplifiers.
- Output Quality: Excellent – Very strong and stable output, no fluctuations.
- Short circuits and GAS: Absent.
Conditions:
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Conditions: Vintage Tubes - Tested and in perfect working order. Comes in our custom box for optimal protection.
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Functionality: Fully functional.
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Aesthetic conditions: Excellent – Perfectly preserved writing, minimal signs of wear. See photos.
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Manufacturing Code: Unreadable, identifiable by construction features. Late 1940s.
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