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ST versus straight-side version of same tube

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Posted on May 30, 2024 at 06:29:14
strhd07
Audiophile

Posts: 32
Joined: October 4, 2001
 Is there a general difference between ST version of a tube and straight side? For example, I have ST and straight-side 6P5s. For this and other tubes that are available in both shapes, is there a general difference in sound or quality between the two shapes?

 

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RE: ST versus straight-side version of same tube, posted on May 30, 2024 at 07:41:46
mraudio
Audiophile

Posts: 476
Location: Northern Colorado
Joined: November 4, 2006
 This is strictly my opinion, but over the past 50 years of using tubes, I always prefer the larger glass over the smaller, when applicable.

IMHO, the larger the glass, the more "tubey" it will sound.

I just replaced a regular 5AU4 with a Flare version and it really did sound much more tube like.

 

RE: ST versus straight-side version of same tube, posted on May 30, 2024 at 10:39:35
opalize
Audiophile

Posts: 114
Location: NorCal
Joined: March 18, 2021
 There are hidden changes to plates, mica spacers, cathode chemistry, etc. that accompanied changes from ST to straight-sided tubes. So I don't think anyone can honestly answer this question with generalities. Maybe it is possible when considering two very specific versions from the same manufacturer, but I'd be skeptical about any conclusions.

I will say one thing, however, from extensive experience with most varieties of 6L6G, 6L6GA, 6L6GB and 6L6GC. The older 6L6G tubes seem to have a more dynamic lively quality that probably derives from less precision and efficiency quelling vibrations with mica spacers. The slightly microphonic nature adds what I deem as a musical dynamic quality. But the engineers no doubt saw that as a shortcoming, and "improved" designs by reducing internal vibrations.

 

...the larger the glass, the more "tubey" it will sound., posted on May 30, 2024 at 12:39:19
andy evans
Audiophile

Posts: 4401
Joined: October 20, 2000
 My experience is that sometimes ST sounds better than globes, e.g. the type 26. Sometimes not.

I have also noticed "tall glass" tubes can sound better, e.g. 6SN7 and 6AH4.

 

RE: ...the larger the glass, the more "tubey" it will sound., posted on May 30, 2024 at 19:52:46
Tre'
Industry Professional

Posts: 17554
Location: So. Cal.
Joined: February 9, 2002
 I guess it all comes down to what a person means when they say "sounds better".

One man's ceiling is another man's floor. Oops, I meant one man's treasure is another man's trash.

Tre'
Have Fun and Enjoy the Music
"Still Working the Problem"

 

Are we banging on these tubes to determine their sound?, posted on May 30, 2024 at 21:37:49
richardl
Audiophile

Posts: 3565
Joined: September 5, 2002
 I don't get it. fancier glass does usually imply they were going for a look, but that doesn't make them better IME.

 

RE: ST versus straight-side version of same tube, posted on May 31, 2024 at 04:48:53
Jack G
Audiophile

Posts: 9749
Joined: September 24, 1999
 In the case of NOS tubes, the difference in shapes frequently indicates a difference in vintage, with the ST shape being older. Straight sided tubes are easier to make, and probably cheaper to make as well. There are some current production tubes that are both, but I haven't listened to them.
Jack

 

+1 (nt), posted on May 31, 2024 at 07:42:50
Byrd69
Audiophile

Posts: 2934
Location: East Syracuse, New York
Joined: August 23, 2004
 .


Your interest may vary but the results will be same. (Byrd 2020)

I can't compete with the dead. (Buck W. 2010)

Cowards can't be heroes. (Byrd 2017)

Why don't catfish have kittens? (Moe Howard 1937)

 

Agreed... Quite clearly (pun intended) a glass ST 6J5 is superior to a metal, posted on June 15, 2024 at 05:08:20
Cleantimestream
Audiophile

Posts: 7579
Location: Kentucky
Joined: June 30, 2005
 !
The Mind has No Firewall~ U.S. Army War College.

 

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