One thought on “Mullard 12au7 Sort Plates Mitcham”
Another day brings another surprise in the world of vintage tubes. I was genuinely shocked to discover that the Mitcham plant produced standard 12AU7 tubes for Mullard. This facility is legendary for its military-grade output, such as the CV4003 and M8163, but this specific unit bears no military insignia—just a clear R0D date code confirming its Mitcham origins.
As for the performance, I found myself feeling a bit let down. While it retains that distinctive Mullard tonal signature with an added touch of detail, the overall presentation is almost too “tight.” This rigidity robs the tube of its musicality. It lacks the expansive sense of air and warmth that characterizes the very best NOS tubes. While it isn’t quite as “desert dry” as a modern reissue, it certainly doesn’t reach the lush, harmonic heights I expected.
Final Verdict: While an interesting historical curiosity due to its Mitcham pedigree, its stiff and unmusical character makes it a pass for those seeking the classic, airy Mullard magic.
Another day brings another surprise in the world of vintage tubes. I was genuinely shocked to discover that the Mitcham plant produced standard 12AU7 tubes for Mullard. This facility is legendary for its military-grade output, such as the CV4003 and M8163, but this specific unit bears no military insignia—just a clear R0D date code confirming its Mitcham origins.
As for the performance, I found myself feeling a bit let down. While it retains that distinctive Mullard tonal signature with an added touch of detail, the overall presentation is almost too “tight.” This rigidity robs the tube of its musicality. It lacks the expansive sense of air and warmth that characterizes the very best NOS tubes. While it isn’t quite as “desert dry” as a modern reissue, it certainly doesn’t reach the lush, harmonic heights I expected.
Final Verdict: While an interesting historical curiosity due to its Mitcham pedigree, its stiff and unmusical character makes it a pass for those seeking the classic, airy Mullard magic.