Stands Apart
Traditional 12AX7 vacuum tubes have been around since the 1940’s, the majority of which are now manufactured in China and Russia. It is common to experience poor quality, inconsistent audio performance, and, oftentimes they are dead on arrival. Amplifier companies and others who manufacture/repair tube amplifiers report rejects/failures ranging from 30% to 90%. Continued supply and availability is a concern.
Utilizing today’s technology, WattGrinder Engineering has developed dynamic product lines of 12AX7 tube devices that address the issues mentioned above in addition to other concerns of the traditional vacuum tube. There is no compromising when it comes to premium performance, tone, and, quality construction of our tubes. Each and every tube is built in the United States.
“Tubes for the 21st Century”™
Available in the X100 and the Expanded Output Series,and our latest series, the EO/X Series. 12AX7 ToneGrinders are a direct replacement for 12AX7 dual triode vacuum tubes. Currently, for each Series, there are four triode designs (4 Standard models); each Standard model has the same triode performance characteristics for each triode in the same dual triode package. 12 Custom models are available. The Custom models are combinations of each of the 4 Standard models, each having different performance characteristics for each triode in the same dual triode package. There is no wrong choice; each tube allows for greater flexibility to change tone and performance always knowing you can return to a favorite configuration.
Key Features
MICROPHONICS All vacuum tubes will exhibit some degree of microphonics. Microphonic tubes ring, howl or produce general feedback all of which are more noticeable at higher volumes or when used in close proximity to a speaker, typically in combo amps. ToneGrinder will not microphonic.
NOISE Noise is more of an issue than microphonics. A noisy tube makes random popping noises, crackles occasionally or just hums. ToneGrinder is very low noise and will not become noisy over time.
GAIN High gain vacuum tubes are typically susceptible to background noise. Higher gain ToneGrinder models remain very low noise.
AMP DESIGNS Tube amp designers are designing equipment with what is available today. Many circuits are designed around the traditional vacuum tube. With ToneGrinder designers have a consistent device with which to evaluate designs without compromise.
Additional Features
Excellent Dynamic Range
Touch Sensitive and Responsive
Quality of Harmonics and Overtones are equal to and in most cases improved
ToneGrinders sustain at the fundamental note and/or overtone and will fold to the next harmonic
Performance levels in most amps are vastly improved
No deterioration; sound quality and performance is consistent
Sorting and Pairing are eliminated
All ToneGrinders will get warm, not hot
Durable construction is not susceptible to vibration damage
While powered on, tubes will not fail if an amp is moved or “jarred”
Every tube produces a premium tone and is repeatable from tube to tube
ToneGrinder tubes may last the lifetime of the equipment
Other Things You Need To Know
Musicians adjust their amp settings and/or effects units based on their favorite 12AX7 vacuum tubes. With any ToneGrinder 12AX7 model you will experience a more dynamic sound field; therefore, modifications to various settings may be necessary. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Please Note: Typically in V1 (Position 1), ToneGrinder Expanded Output tubes may not be appropriate for amplifiers with built in Overdrive Preamps or Lead Channel Overdrive circuits; for example, a Marshall JCM-800. Tubes from the X100 Series should be used in these applications.
Also, when using ToneGrinder tubes in amplifiers with “low Power”, “5 Watt”, “1/4 Power” or similar features, it is recommended to use the full power setting.
All 12AX7 ToneGrinder models work well with distortion pedals and other effects units.
To view a description of ToneGrinder's triode characteristics Click here
To hear ToneGrinders Check Out Our "Sound Samples" Click here