JAN CRC 6G6G ( VT-198A ) RCA NOS NIB Black Plates Square Getter Power Pentode Matched Pair Tubes MADE IN USA '60
Description:
These JAN CRC 6G6G / VT-198A , produced by RCA in 1960 , are two power amplifier pentodes designed for military applications (JAN = Joint Army Navy). They are in NOS (New Old Stock) condition , never used, and come in their original sealed military packaging .
Internally, they feature black plates , a square getter, and a sturdy, well-centered symmetrical structure. The 6G6G is a variant of the 6V6 with slightly different operating characteristics, such as a lower anode voltage, a rounder dynamic response, and a smoother timbre, making it ideal for low-power but highly refined amplifiers.
Timbre characteristics and sound description
Bass:
Dry and controlled. They offer a quick and clean response, without bloat or excess, restoring the right weight to the instruments without invading the midrange. Excellent for listening in controlled environments.
Medium:
Refined and present. Voices sound natural and well-sculpted, with a pleasant fluidity. Acoustic instruments benefit from a credible and well-articulated soundstage.
Highs:
Delicate yet present. No harshness, no excess: the highs are silky, well-integrated into the soundscape, and enriched with good detail, ideal for long-term listening.
Dynamics:
Progressive and natural. Transient response is smooth, with consistent microdynamics. The tube reproduces changes in intensity with musicality and finesse, even at low volumes.
Soundstage:
Central, precise, intimate. The stereo image is stable and uncluttered, with good separation and depth. Not as extensive as that of more powerful tubes, but very realistic and focused.
🎧 Use in Push-Pull or Single-Ended Stereo Hi-Fi Amplifiers
Excellent for low-power hi-fi amplifiers, these 1960s RCA 6G6Gs deliver a coherent and engaging musical performance. Perfect for tube systems with high-efficiency speakers or vintage-style DIY projects. Also recommended for audiophile-oriented single-ended applications.
🎸 Use in Music Amplifiers
Rarely used in guitar, they can deliver a warm, natural tone in custom circuits. Their response is smooth, well-controlled, with gentle harmonic compression, ideal for clean, expressive sounds in recording environments.
🎯 Note for audiophiles and technicians
These 1960 RCA 6G6G, JAN military version, combine solid construction and natural musicality. A valid alternative to the more common 6V6, worth considering for refined projects or historic restorations of post-war American tube equipment.
Test Results:
Tested with AMPLITREX AT-1000 Tube tester:
Measurements taken after 10 minutes of preheating.
Test Conditions: Va = 180V ; Vg2 = 180V ; Vg = 9V
AVERAGE 100%: Gm = 2300 ; Ia = 15 mA
Test Result: VERY STRONG
- Valve 1: Gm = 2500 ; Ia = 17.8 mA
- Valve 2: Gm = 2500 ; Ia = 17.4 mA
Additional Tests Performed:
- Microphonics: Low. 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:
- Condition: NOS - NIB - New Old Stock, New In Box - Tested and working - Supplied in original box.
- Functionality: Fully functional.
- Cosmetic condition: Excellent – Excellently preserved lettering, minimal signs of wear. See photos for details.
- Manufacturing Code: 60-09. - Made by RCA - 9th week of 1960.