JAN 5R4WGB RAYTHEON NOS NIB Black Plates Hanging Filaments Double Halo Getter Tested Rectifier Tube Made in USA '69
Description:
The 5R4WGB RAYTHEON , in this 1969 JAN (Joint Army-Navy) version, features ruggedized military construction, with solid black plates , dual halo getters, suspended filaments , and thick “potato masher”-style glass. It is one of the most rugged and reliable rectifiers of its time, designed to withstand extreme operating conditions without compromising electrical stability.
This valve is suitable for dual mono power supplies, medium power single-ended amplifiers or restorations of military and broadcast electronics, where reliability, silence and tonal solidity over time are required.
Bass : solid and authoritative. The low end is deep and well-anchored , with a behavior that favors controlled impact over smoothness. Ideal for systems requiring stability under load and a decisive response.
Mids : Dry and focused. The mid frequencies are clean, linear, and free from coloration , with a more “technical” than romantic feel. Vocals are precise , and acoustic instruments emerge with clarity and coherence .
Highs : Neutral and transparent. The upper part of the spectrum introduces neither attenuations nor exaltations: the detail is well present , but never excessive. The brilliance is measured , with an analytical but not fatiguing rendering.
Dynamics : Reactive and stable. Dynamic behavior is rapid but always under control , without perceptible hysteresis or delays. The valve handles sudden changes well, returning a clean and coherent signal, even with variable loads.
Soundstage : wide and rational. The soundstage is deep and well-distributed , with excellent separation between channels and a spatial rendering that is more engineered than euphonic . Ideal for those seeking precision and transparency in the construction of the soundstage .
🎧 Use in Headphone Amplifiers and Hi-Fi Driver Stages
Thanks to its exceptional stability and extremely low noise floor , this tube is ideal for tube preamplifiers, dual mono DACs and reference headphone amplifiers , especially in systems where timbral accuracy and resolution are fundamental criteria. It pairs perfectly with headphones such as the Hifiman Susvara , Focal Utopia or Sennheiser HD800S , enhancing their neutral and transparent character.
🎸 Use in Guitar and Bass Amplifiers
The 5R4WGB is often used in high-grade American amplifiers or boutique military-spec models , where it offers tight rectification, a crisp attack, and a stable response under stress . Ideal for articulate clean sounds, jazz, country, and high-fidelity studio recordings. Less suitable for those looking for tube-like compression and pronounced sag.
🎯 Note for audiophiles and technicians
A technically impeccable straightener, designed to last for decades. The JAN RAYTHEON brand, the presence of suspended filaments and the symmetrical internal construction make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize electrical rigor and long-term reliability .
Test Results:
Valve tested on Funke W19 Tube Tester:
- Test Conditions: Va = 100V ; Vf = 5.0V
- Good from: Ia = 61 mA
- Average 100%: Ia = 95 mA
- Test Result: VERY STRONG
Valve:
- Section 1: Ia = 110 mA
- Section 2: Ia = 105 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:
- Condition: NOS - NIB - New Old Stock, New In Box - Tested and working - Supplied in original box.
- Functionality: Fully functional.
- Cosmetic condition: Very good – Clearly legible writing with minor signs of aging. See photos for details.
- Manufacturing Code: 69-40 → RMA/EIA Open Date Code → manufactured week 40 of 1969
Find out why our valves are different →
Open here
