Description
Ray Tubes Select 12AX7
The Ray Tubes Select 12AX7 is the best 12AX7 vacuum tube you’ll ever need. It goes above and beyond the baseline with more involved production and stricter selection, all in pursuit of superior sound.
The SELECT Collection brings out the best in all your favourites.
Hand selected and tested, the Ray Tubes SELECT 12AX7 features gold pins for corrosion resistance and improved conduction.
The SELECT Collection is a substantial upgrade from both New Old Stock and other new production tubes. Fewer than 5% of production meets their standards.
The 12AX7 vacuum tube was introduced in 1947 as a replacement for the earlier 6SL7 family of dual triodes, all of which were used extensively in audio applications.
As one of a handful of small signal tubes that have remained in production since their first use, the 12AX7 is commonly found in the pre-amp stage of tube amplifiers and is especially associated with the emerging electric guitar sound of the 1950s.
Sound Characteristics
The Ray Tubes Select 12AX7 delivers clear and natural sound, perfect for users who prioritize mid-to-high frequency performance and detailed resolution, especially suited for systems that handle complex music and require fine note reproduction.
Bass Performance
Clear and tight with moderate depth and good control. The low-end response is precise, making it ideal for fast-paced genres and providing clean bass detail in small ensemble music.
Midrange Performance
Delicate and well-layered, with a natural and realistic sound. High resolution and good spatial depth, particularly in vocals and strings. Both male and female vocals come across with impressive expressiveness.
Treble Performance
Clear and bright, with rich detail and moderate extension. It doesn’t overly emphasize the highs, offering a well-balanced overall sound with abundant high-frequency detail.
Dynamics and Soundstage
The dynamics are precise and rich, capturing subtle changes in volume with accuracy. The soundstage is expansive, with excellent imaging and a strong sense of space, suitable for a wide range of musical works.
Explore Ray Tubes’ Tube Amp Compatibility List.
About Ray Tubes
At Ray Tubes, they know that passion brings people together. Tube audio has brought audiophiles together for decades, but in recent years, it’s become more difficult to access than ever.
The modern tube market is a mess—dodgy quality, shady sellers, limited stock. No good. They fixed it. Ray Tubes give you that classic sound without the hassle. Old-fashioned quality, modern reliability.
When it comes to making reliable tubes, there’s no such thing as a silver bullet. A factory that makes the world’s best 300Bs might not be best for 12AU7s. That’s why they partner with manufacturers around the world to build tubes to their exact specifications.
No leaks, no discoloured getters, and no dodgy filaments: just good materials and quality craftsmanship.