Does anybody know if all DSL 401's were restricted in what size EL84's would fit or was this rectified on later models, please?
Mine's a 2009 model, but have to admit I haven't tried any of the bigger diameter valves in it. I think the Sovteks are the bigger variant, of which I have a couple. I've got some vintage RFT's lined up for it when I next have it open. They are similar diameter to the stock JJ's though. Is it just the Russian tubes that are too big or have you come across others?
I was potentially just interested in trying some TAD EL84 STR's in there but after seeing them listed as being unsuitable for "older Marshall DSL401" I wondered if I should forget the idea. Mine is a 2005.
Did you try the TAD’s ? Mines getting close to needing new EL84’s and just curious if the larger tubes fit. I.e TADs, Mullard reissue, TungSol, Mine is a 2009.
Who told you this? The DSLs have problems with defective circuit boards. It is most likely that the defect in the amp is damaging the tubes. It is really easy for people to blame the tubes for a problem that is actually caused by the amplifier. And they tend to do this quite often. Primarily because they really know nothing about tubes or amplifiers... But if the amp is fixed and tested properly: there shouldn't be any issue with using JJ tubes. Why would there be? If somebody is spreading their unsubstantiated rumors about JJ tubes, then ask them to back it up with some facts. You will find that they don't have any facts. (other than imagination).
Thanks. I’ve just read on tubestore.com that the size restriction is highlighted for “..some 90’s era ..DSL401’s ..” . They also state the diameter as 0.874” so I’ll just get my callipers out and measure the opening. I’ve been using JJ’s for the last 8 years, now tempted to try something different.
I had an older version & had to enlarge the holes in the frame to allow the use of different EL-84 tubes. I simply removed the circuit board & ran a Xmas tree bit thru the holes.
