Varmint XL-150 new to me tube amp...noob questions.

[snippits75]

Just recently bought the Varmint amp from a gent that I made friends with on the CB radio. It has been modified by a local amp builder. It has one 6KV6 driving two 6N45C Russian tubes. The Russian tubes can be bought for reasonable prices, so I think that's why the amp was modded.

I looked at a tube database, and the preferred substitute for a 6KV6 is a 6JG6. What should I expect if I did use 6JG6 as a substitute for a 6KV6? Is it just plug and play or what?

If the need arises to change tubes, what's the best way to go about it, so I don't end up six feet under? Of course I will unplug the AC power cord!

 

[BJ radionut]

http://worldtubecompany.com/mm5/mer...de=WTC&Product_Code=6N45CN&Category_Code=1N-N

The difference between the KV6 vs JG6 will be a "Slight" amount of drive to the other tubes.
The KV6 has a plate dissipation of 24 watts...JG6 of 17 watts with a MAXIMUM Drive of 3.5 watts for either tube.
This is a low drive amp! Not built for radio with wild swing or high power.
EX: a radio with like 2 watts dead key and a swing of 20 watts out is a NONO!
This amp was built in the days when radios put out like 3 watts with a forward modulation to like 5 watts.

 

[Tokin]

Yes, first unplug then discharge the filter capacitor(s) preferably with a discharge stick and use a meter to confirm discharge. Do not touch the tube glass with your bare hands as it leaves oils behind and cleaning the tube with anything more than a cotton cloth will remove all markings. I like to use clean cotton gloves or a clean sock in a pinch. Very gently rock the tube while gently pulling up to remove.
I dont think you will see any difference in changing one tube. Your best bet is to compare price, availability and data sheets.
Thats my 2¢. Other opinions may vary

 

[Tokin]

http://worldtubecompany.com/mm5/mer...de=WTC&Product_Code=6N45CN&Category_Code=1N-N

The difference between the KV6 vs JG6 will be a "Slight" amount of drive to the other tubes.
The KV6 has a plate dissipation of 24 watts...JG6 of 17 watts with a MAXIMUM Drive of 3.5 watts for either tube.
This is a low drive amp! Not built for radio with wild swing or high power.
EX: a radio with like 2 watts dead key and a swing of 20 watts out is a NONO!
This amp was built in the days when radios put out like 3 watts with a forward modulation to like 5 watts.

Absofreakinlutely...