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Tube Maze
Guides and reviews of vacuum tubes and tube equipment
What an absolutely fantastic tube! The Tung-Sol 12AU7 Black Plates represents the very dawn of this valve’s history, with this specific unit being produced in 1948. It features the rare, early vertical D-getter and black plates, marking it as a true collector’s piece.
Sound-wise, this is the cream of the crop in the 12AU7 family. It is super transparent and musical, offering fantastic air and a sprawling soundstage. However, what truly separates this tube from its peers is its unparalleled smoothness; there is absolutely no grain to be found. The only point of comparison for this level of refinement is the legendary Bendix 6900, which is the smoothest tube I have ever encountered. This Tung-Sol comes remarkably close to that benchmark. Finding a matched pair is practically impossible, so if you come across even a single unit, just get it.
The Tung-Sol Electric Inc., originally based in Newark, New Jersey, was a titan of American vacuum tube innovation. They are perhaps best known for developing the 6550 power tube, but their early work with the 12AU7 series in the late 1940s is equally significant.
The early black plates seen in 1948-era production were a hallmark of quality. These plates were coated with a carbonized layer to improve heat dissipation and minimize secondary electron emission, which contributed to the tube’s signature low-noise floor and “inky” black backgrounds. During this post-war period, Tung-Sol was at the height of its engineering prowess, utilizing high-grade materials and rigorous manual assembly. The vertical D-getter found in these early versions was a predecessor to the later halo-getters and is often cited by purists as a key factor in the superior vacuum integrity and longevity of these first-generation 12AU7s.
Final Verdict
The Tung-Sol 12AU7 Black Plate with Vertical D-Getter is a sonic masterpiece that defines the “vintage American” sound. Its grain-free presentation and holographic air make it one of the most desirable 12AU7 variants ever made. While finding them is a challenge, the reward is a reference-level listening experience that modern tubes simply cannot replicate.