I'm needing some help. This is the first time I've ever attempted to retube my amp. I would like to know what preamp and power amp tubes would be good for my amp. I play alot of metal so I want something crunchy and tight with loads of gain, but I would also like something versatile enough to pull of some good fender-esque blues and rock tones if possible. I'm not too keen on some of the terminology used to describe characteristics so I'm hoping some of you tube savvy folks can help direct me in the right direction.

My amp is a Peavey VTM 120. The preamp section is 3 - 12AX7's, The power section is 4 - 6L6GC's with a 12AX7 driver. What is this driver? Is it just another preamp tube? I'm assuming it will have to be replaced as well? I hear alot about the JJ tubes. Go easy on me for I don't know exactly what I'm looking for. As mentioned before, I play alot of metal and would like a high gain with plenty of bass and mid range crunch. Any help is greatly appreciated! Thanks!

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You should get the same type of tubes that came with your amp. If you change brands you will have to get it re-biased. This controls how much voltage the tubes get. It has to be done by a qulified tech. It runs about $70. You don't have to replace the pre-amp tubes unless they are burnt. Go to gearheads.com. They are a nowlagable site and have lots of info. I like Groove Tubes and Mesa's. Sovtech are good to.

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as far as my suggestions go. i like jj's and tung sol's in general.


even if you buy the same brand tubes you may have to rebias. mesa tubes are all in the same range, and groove tubes has a rating system so you can order the same rating each time.

the cost of a rebias will vary depending on who does it and what their price is. i've never paid more than $40. it's a simple task for someone with the tools and knowhow.

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Cool, so I don't need to replace the preamp tubes unless they are burnt? So it's the power tubes that wear out more often? I'll check out that gearheads site. Does/has anyone rebiased an amp themselves? I've got a really good electronics/mechanics savvy friend that has loads of equipment to do stuff like this (I believe), but I'm not quite sure what tools it takes to rebias an amp (heh). Thanks!

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Biasing an amp is a very coplicated process, mabey your friend could help you. Groove Tubes has a book that explains the process.

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