Valve Tubey Experts

[The Chronicals]

Hi all

I changed the tubes in my Icon Audio PS1.2 today. Originally the unit was meant to be fitted with JJ 2 x ECC83's and 1 x ECC82, however coming to change them, I fgound it was fitted with 3 x ECC83's - all JJ's. Reading up it seems it wouldnt be a problem fitting the 82, apparently it just has less output - which makes sense, my volume know is definitely turned up more.

Sound wise - I didnt hear a mahoosive differene, but definitely less 'jittery' and active, a fair bit smoother -- I imagine the extra 83 was making it sound like this.

But I am getting some louder 'static' since changing them when nothing is playing, like noise and some gurgles when turning the power off and popping when the power is turned on - is this a characteristic or is something potentially wrong?

[paulf-2007]

Doesn't sound like a characteristic a manufacturer would accept. So are you saying the valves fitted now are the ones that should come with amp. If so I wonder if it has been modified to take the 83 in place of the 82. Not being an expert I expect the two valves require different voltage and current requirements.

[paulf-2007]

Looking at the specs the values are very different. Maybe someone with knowledge will be along to clear this up. I would suggest you don't use it as is.

[Arkless Electronics]

Just had a look on their website and it says 3 x ECC83...

[The Chronicals]

I could never find the PS1.2 on their website? could you send a link?

This is the big industrial chassis version with the tubes at the front through the window, not the newer sleeker units.

I took advice from the 'angry' forum, it seems pretty much everyone who has ever owned an Icon ps1.2 uses the selection I went for, hence the choice really.

Hmm, it sounds fine and is working lovely, its just that gurgle and white noise.

[The Chronicals]

one thread for instance..

http://www.hifiwigwam.com/showthread.php?55240-Icon-Audio-PS1-2-Recommend-Some-Valves

[hifi_dave]

If you want advice from someone who knows - e-mail Icon for their advice. Always helpful.

[Arkless Electronics]

Maybe not same version but here yer go http://www.iconaudio.com/main-products/ps-1-mkii-mm-and-mm-mc/

[Arkless Electronics]

If an ECC82 was used it is likely to be as an output cathode follower. The 82 and 83 are very different in spite of having the same pin out

[The Chronicals]

I have no idea what a cathode follower is :)

A friend of my dads has one of these - he has just checked his unit and indeed, it has 2 ECC83's and 1 ECC82, which he bought brand new from Icon about six years ago.

Mind boggles. I think I'll have to give Icon a call on Monday.

[Arkless Electronics]

ECC82 is much more suitable as a cathode follower and commonly used as one...
Best give em a ring and see what is standard for yours as you suggest.