Blumentritt Amplification Texas Tone 12 Owner's Manual Rev 3 6
Important Information about Guitar Amp Vacuum Tubes (Valves):
The sound produced by a tube powered amplifier is significantly different from that produced by a solid
state amplifier with identical design specifications. When pushed past their limits, solid state devices
tend to go immediately into distortion.
Tubes, on the other hand, are non-linear devices that transition more smoothly into distortion, and
produce a more musical set of harmonics, the intensity of which can be controlled by the player. This
characteristic adds warmth and definition to the sound which has become the hallmark of tube
amplifiers. When tubes are driven into clipping, the harmonic overtones can be both sweet and
pleasing or intense and penetrating, depending on the musician’s musical taste and playing technique.
Modern application engineers have designed a number of outstanding solid-state amplifiers that sound
quite good. Some use modeling circuitry which enables them to simulate the distortion characteristics
of a tube amplifier. Since the response of tubes is both dynamic and non-linear, the true range of
characteristics of tube amplifiers can only be approximated. Modern tube amplifiers such as Texas
Tone™ amps, offer that classic, dynamic vintage sound in today’s contemporary market.
Tube Types and Usage:
Preamp tube circuits amplify the signal from your instrument and shape the sound, and they can often
be microphonic (mechanically pick up and transmit external noises). Since these tubes are used in the
critical first stages of a tube amplifier's circuitry, it is very important to use high-quality, low noise/low
microphonic tubes for this application. Although tubes of this quality may typically cost more than
standard tubes, the improvement in performance is worth the investment, and in some cases, critical.
Preamplifier tubes are also used to drive the power tubes. The power tubes convert the low-level,
conditioned signal from the preamplifier into a level that is sufficient to drive the speakers. There are
several types of power tubes available, each of which offers a different performance/sound
characteristic. The 6V6 tubes used in the Texas Tone 12 produce a creamy sound with nice distortion.
Some tubes are available in matched sets. These tubes have been extensively tested for optimum
performance and longevity. Matched sets of power tubes are highly recommended.
Tubes: Why (And When) To Replace Them:
Tubes are made up of a number of fragile mechanical components that are vacuum-sealed in a glass
envelope. A tube's longevity is based on a number of factors, including how hard and often the
amplifier is played, vibration from the speakers, road travel, repeated set up and tear down, etc. Any
time you notice a change in your amplifier's performance, check the tubes first.
If it's been a while since the tubes were replaced and the sound from your amplifier lacks punch, fades
in and out, loses highs or lows or produces unusual sounds, the power tubes may need to be replaced.
If your amplifier squeals, makes noise, loses gain, starts to hum, lacks dynamic sensitivity, or feels as if it
is working against you, the preamplifier tubes may need to be replaced.
