12AX7 / ECC83 RCA – Long Gray Plates – Square Tilt Getter – Made in USA '50s
AMPLITREX Tested – VERY STRONG – Low Noise & Microphonics
Description:
This original RCA 12AX7 / ECC83, made in the United States in the 1950s, represents one of the most sought-after versions of the famous American double triode, appreciated for its build quality and its distinctive sonic character.
The internal structure highlights elements typical of the best RCA productions of the time:
- Long Gray Plates
- Square Tilt Getter
- robust and precise internal construction
The square tilt getter is a characteristic configuration of the first productions, today particularly appreciated for its vacuum stability and longevity.
The valve has been tested in our laboratory with Amplitrex AT-1000 , with VERY STRONG result, and Low Noise & Microphonics verified, making it suitable even for sensitive positions in the circuit.
Sound Characteristics
This RCA 50's configuration offers a typically warm, full and three-dimensional sound, with an extremely natural musical presentation.
Bass: Deep and rounded, with excellent structure and body. Never intrusive, but always well controlled.
Mids: The real strength: rich, textured, and incredibly expressive. Vocals are present, credible, and nuanced.
Highs: Sweet and refined, never aggressive. Excellent extension with a velvety performance typical of the best vintage RCA productions.
Dynamics: Fluid and natural, with a musical response that prioritizes coherence and musicality over artificial impact.
Soundstage: Wide and well-layered, with excellent instrument separation and realistic depth.
🎧 Use in Hi-Fi Amplifiers
Ideal for:
- tube preamplifiers
- vintage and modern integrated amplifiers
- phono stages (due to low noise)
- quality buffer and line stage
Perfect for systems requiring musicality, naturalness and realistic harmonic reconstruction , with a typically “American” sound signature.
🎸 Use in Music Applications
Also highly appreciated in the instrumental field for:
- guitar amplifiers
- vintage organs and instruments
It offers a warm, progressive and musical response, with a soft and controlled saturation, ideal for those looking for character without harshness.
🎯 Note for audiophiles
This 50's RCA represents a very interesting choice for those who want a 12AX7 with authentic vintage character , solid construction and high performance.
The VERY STRONG test on Amplitrex and the Low Noise & Microphonics verification ensure stable and reliable operation, making it suitable even for critical positions in the circuit.
A valve that combines history, construction and musicality , designed for those seeking not only performance, but a true listening experience.
Test Results
Tested on AMPLITREX AT-1000 Tube Tester
Voltage Test: Va = 250V, Vg = -2V
Average 100%: Gm = 1600 ; Ia = 1.2 mA
TEST RESULT: VERY STRONG
Valve:
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Section 1 : Gm = 1600; Ia = 0.8 mA
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Section 2 : Gm = 1800 ; Ia = 1.0 mA
Additional Tests Performed:
- Microphonics: Low Noise & Microphonics – Tested and compliant for use in hi-fi systems and guitar amplifiers.
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Balance: The sections present a coherent balance, fully compatible with use in hi-fi and musical amplifiers, in all applications where absolute symmetry between the sections is not required.
- Output Quality: Excellent – Very strong and stable output, no fluctuations.
- Short circuits and GAS: Absent.
Conditions:
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Condition: Vintage tubes - Tested and in perfect working order. Shipped in our custom box for optimal protection.
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Functionality: Fully functional.
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Cosmetic condition: Fair – Writing completely faded. See photos for details.
Manufacturing Code:
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Unreadable, identifiable by construction features. 1950s
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