Verellen Octal - Solid-state powertube replacements

[GuitarBilly74]

I have the JCA Solid State tubes. I wouldn't use them full time, because they don't sound much like real tubes. That said, they're a great option to keep in the gig bag in case of an emergency.

 

[laxu]

fwiw Verellen has been posting (very short) A/B demo and guitarist reaction videos for a few weeks ~











(there are more on the channel)

Watching these and some others on the channel, the best case scenario for these seems to be:

• High output power amps, run clean
• Either pristine clean tones, or 100% preamp gain.

The Soldano Hot Rod 100 clip sounded reasonably close, and the Fender Twin worked fine.

But until tubes become unobtainium...I just don't see much reason to buy these as anything but backups in case a powertube fails at a gig. They do seem to take away something from all amps.

 

[Chocol8]

Two thoughts come to mind.

1) When he said it wouldn't sound like a real tube he was being honest.

2) Posting clips leads to criticism of those clips with little upside.

 

[FuzzyAce]

What's the cost for an octal pair? Using them as a backup seems to be the main benefit to these. Although some could like the sound and feel better in certain amps, who knows? As far as longevity, that's somewhat of an unknown factor until time is put into them. They're still parts.

 

[dronerstone]

What's the cost for an octal pair? Using them as a backup seems to be the main benefit to these. Although some could like the sound and feel better in certain amps, who knows? As far as longevity, that's somewhat of an unknown factor until time is put into them. They're still parts.

Would be interesting how much they impact the overall sound compared to real power amp tubes, and if they'll add some of that "sharp" and direct solid-state characteristics.

 

[FuzzyAce]

Would be interesting how much they impact the overall sound compared to real power amp tubes, and if they'll add some of that "sharp" and direct solid-state characteristics.

It should certainly be noticeable at loud volumes. Quiet volumes, probably no real difference, but that depends on amp design of course.
If using in conjunction with a tube-rectifier, the sag will still be there. OT has a big impact too. So, they may work great in some amps - but not worth the cost/supposed benefits in others.

 

[DISTORT6]

I'm kinda seeing this opposite of most.
Use these to SAVE my good tubes for when they are really needed.