Tubes Asylum

ST versus straight-side version of same tube

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strhd07

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?

Follow Ups:

RE: ST versus straight-side version of same tube - Jack G 04:48:53 05/31/24 (0)
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
Are we banging on these tubes to determine their sound? - richardl 21:37:49 05/30/24 (0)
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 - opalize 10:39:35 05/30/24 (0)
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.
RE: ST versus straight-side version of same tube - mraudio 07:41:46 05/30/24 (4)
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.
- ...the larger the glass, the more "tubey" it will sound. - andy evans 12:39:19 05/30/24 (3)
  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.
  - Agreed... Quite clearly (pun intended) a glass ST 6J5 is superior to a metal - Cleantimestream 05:08:20 06/15/24 (0)
    !
    The Mind has No Firewall~ U.S. Army War College.
  - RE: ...the larger the glass, the more "tubey" it will sound. - Tre' 19:52:46 05/30/24 (1)
    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"
    - +1 (nt) - Byrd69 07:42:50 05/31/24 (0)
      .
      
      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)

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