D*A*M Forum

So my 6v6 power tube sockets are loose to the point whenever I transport the amp, they fall out. I'm going to get some tube retainers/clamps to keep them in place but my question is the fact they are falling out during transport an indication the actual tube sockets should be pinched or tightened as well, or are the retainers good enough? The amp functions fine and sounds great. If anyone has some insight, let me know. Thanks,

pothole wrote: ↑Wed Feb 14, 2024 5:21 pm is the fact they are falling out during transport an indication the actual tube sockets should be pinched or tightened as well

Yes. You should tighten the sockets so they make better contact with the pins. You can use a small screwdriver or dental pick to do this, but please check first that all of the sockets are free from any voltage. Retainers should also be used.

Dr Tony Balls wrote: ↑Wed Feb 14, 2024 5:43 pm

pothole wrote: ↑Wed Feb 14, 2024 5:21 pm is the fact they are falling out during transport an indication the actual tube sockets should be pinched or tightened as well

Yes. You should tighten the sockets so they make better contact with the pins. You can use a small screwdriver or dental pick to do this, but please check first that all of the sockets are free from any voltage. Retainers should also be used.

Thanks for confirming Doc, appreciate it!

Are they JJ tubes?

I've had some JJ tubes with pins that were smaller diameter than normal. Not good for old loose sockets.

I need a work light and a big magnifier when checking tube sockets these days. I want to get one of those usb microscopes.

Rygar wrote: ↑Thu Feb 15, 2024 4:05 pm Are they JJ tubes?

I've had some JJ tubes with pins that were smaller diameter than normal. Not good for old loose sockets.

They are JJ's. That's interesting, I didn't even consider the pin size. Good catch on that!