12AX7 ( ECC83 ) Baldwin by RAYTHEON Long Black Plates Halo Getter Matched Trio Tubes Made in USA '61
Description:
The matched trio of 12AX7 Raytheon Long Black Plates labeled Baldwin , manufactured in the USA in 1961, represent an ideal configuration for three-stage tube preamplifiers or for use in dual mono stereo amplifiers, where tonal uniformity, dynamic coherence and refined musical response are required.
These tubes, selected with long black plates and "O"-shaped getters, offer a rich, precise and three-dimensional sound, with a tonal balance that combines naturalness and detail. The Raytheon sound signature is recognized for the refinement in the restitution of micro details , combined with a full but never intrusive harmonic presence .
Bass : dry but well present, with a fast and precise response. No bloat, just control and articulation.
Mids : elegant, transparent and musical. Voices emerge naturally, and harmonic instruments maintain body and roundness without excessive coloration.
Highs : extended and delicate, with a bright but never fatiguing rendering. The high range is airy and returns the detail with fluidity.
Dynamics : balanced and reactive, able to follow signal variations promptly and fluidly, without ever compressing or forcing.
Soundstage : wide and well distributed. The stereo image is solid, with excellent depth and separation, ideal even in three-channel or separate-stage configurations.
These matched tubes are a reference choice for those who want an open, coherent, and mature sound , with a refined musical presentation, perfect for advanced hi-fi, handcrafted preamps, and professional recording applications.
🎸 Use in Guitar and Bass Amplifiers
The 12AX7 Raytheon labeled Baldwin is a tube highly appreciated also in the musical field for its balance between detail and musicality. In guitar preamps, it delivers a transparent sound, rich in harmonics, with a controlled attack and a prompt dynamic response , making it ideal for both clean styles and light dynamic crunch.
This matched trio is perfect for three-stage amplifiers (like the Fender Deluxe Reverb or Marshall JCM800), where the coherence between the tubes ensures tonal consistency and greater definition throughout the signal path .
🔊 Ideal for musicians looking for:
✅ Clean and articulated, with a natural and never sterile timbre
✅ Defined overdrives, never muddy, with great separation between notes
✅ Dynamic control, useful for playing with your fingers or for using the volume potentiometer
✅ Excellent headroom and tonal stability even at high volumes
🎸 Recommended amplifiers:
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Fender Deluxe Reverb / Vibrolux / Bassman – For clean but musical sounds, from jazz to blues
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Marshall JTM45 / JCM800 – In the early stages of gain helps maintain clarity and structure
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Mesa Boogie Mark Series – Excellent definition and headroom, even in high saturation contexts
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Boutique amps (Dr. Z, Carr, Matchless) – For harmonically rich yet controlled sounds
🎯 Note for professional musicians :
The coherent behavior of this matched trio allows for a stable, well-controlled and surprise-free sound reproduction, ideal in the studio or in live performances where every detail counts.
Test Results:
Valve tested on AMPLITREX AT-1000 Tube Tester:
- Test Conditions: Va = 250V ; Vg = -2V
- Average 100%: Gm = 1600 ; Ia = 1.2 mA
- Test Result: VERY STRONG
Valve 1:
- Section 1: Gm = 1500 ; Ia = 0.9 mA
- Section 2: Gm = 1500 ; Ia = 0.9 mA
Valve 2:
- Section 1: Gm = 1400 ; Ia = 0.8 mA
- Section 2: Gm = 1500 ; Ia = 0.9 mA
Valve 3:
- Section 1: Gm = 1500 ; Ia = 0.8 mA
- Section 2: Gm = 1400 ; Ia = 0.8 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: Vintage - Tested and working - Supplied in our custom box for optimum protection.
- Functionality: Fully functional.
- Cosmetic Condition: Good – Lettering partially eroded, but still legible. Valve body in good condition. See photos for details.
- Manufacturing Code: P28061-17C - Manufacturing RAYTHEON - 17th week of 1961
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