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In the Forum: Melquiades Amplifier
In the Thread: Single-stage Melquiades vs. DHT amps

Post Subject: Running the 45Posted by floobydust on: 6/16/2009

Paul,

Everyone has their personal favorite on the 45... I have several RCAs... still prefer the Sylvania over them. Also, I've never seen a 45 with anything but a black plate. RCA did make black plate 2A3 tubes which are more rare than their gray plate 2A3, but the 45 (any and all brands) seem to have a black plate. I also agree that the 45 is a very clean and neutral sounding tube.... truly an all-time favorite, albeit only 2-watts of output.

Romy,

I suppose that new vs old between the 45 and RE604 could account for some differences, but it's more of an "apples to oranges" comparison. Pushing the 45 beyond it's ratings is not a great idea... especially the cathode current as it will certainly shorten it's life... I always run the 45 around 34-36ma and never any more. You can run the plate a bit beyond 10-watts (the final revised rating) provided you have adequate airflow and keep the cathode current down.

Regards, KM

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