Ray Tubes Select 12AU7 Vacuum Tube

Our Take

A New Dimension of Sound
The SELECT Collection not only maintains the exceptional manufacturing quality of the CORE Collection but makes a significant leap in sound quality. Engineered for audiophiles who want an immersive auditory experience, this tier far surpasses what “factory vacuum tubes” can offer.

Make Your Good Amp Great
The SELECT Collection significantly upgrades the performance of your vacuum tube amplifier, even starter models. These vacuum tubes are engineered to enhance the hidden capabilities of your amp, transforming its output into something far beyond its original sound profile. With each vacuum tube rigorously selected by our audio engineers, the SELECT Collection ensures a profound enhancement in clarity, texture, and detail. Every note resonates with more realism, every harmony carries more emotionality, and every rhythm pulses with tighter low-end precision.

The SELECT Vacuum Tube Difference
Despite originating from the same batches as Ray Tubes’ CORE Collection, SELECT vacuum tubes are distinguished not by automated manufacturing differences but by the expert judgment of a professional. Their engineers assess each vacuum tube individually for its sound profile, dynamics, microphonics, gain, conductance, noise, and overall performance. This human touch ensures that only vacuum tubes that meet a superior level of sonic excellence are chosen. This meticulous, engineer-led selection is what makes the SELECT Collection exceptionally reliable and capable of delivering next-level sound quality.

Gold Pins: Excellence in Every Detail
Gold pins not only add a touch of elegance but also serve a significant purpose. Gold's superior conductivity enhances signal transmission for crystal-clear sound, while its resistance to oxidation ensures long-term performance and durability. These qualities, combined with the secure contact gold provides within the socket, mean your vacuum tubes aren't just top-notch—they're built to last.

Ceramic Collar: Nothing Better Than a Classic
Sometimes, doing things the old way is better. And when it comes to building materials, there are few things older than ceramic, which has been beloved by humans for its resilience and heat resistance for over 30,000 years. Ray Tubes chose premium ceramic for the collar of the 6SN7 Select because it’s incredibly resilient against high temperatures, making it an ideal material for vacuum tubes, which can generate a lot of heat during operation. Plus, ceramic is robust against wear and tear, making it able to withstand the rigors of regular use for years to come.

Silk-Screen Printed Logos
Even the logos deserve a special mention. Silk-screen-printed onto the tubes, they demonstrate Ray Tubes’ commitment to superior craftsmanship down to the smallest detail. This time-honored printing technique yields results that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable, ensuring the design work remains vibrant and intact over time.

Superior Sound, Secured
An exceptional 12-month warranty—a rarity in the world of vacuum tubes, especially NOS vacuum tubes—reflects Ray Tubes’ confidence in their vacuum tubes’ performance and durability. This warranty is your safeguard against any manufacturing defects, making sure that your investment is protected.

Product highlights

• Hand-selected and tested
• Gold pins for corrosion resistance and excellent conduction
• A substantial upgrade from standard NOS tubes
• Low noise and microphonics
• Fewer than 5% of the tubes commissioned for production meet our voltage, current, and sound signature standards

Compatible Amps

Explore Ray Tube's Tube Amp Compatibility List

Product Details

Unlock New Layers of Sound
The SELECT 12AU7 is the best 12AU7 vacuum tube you’ll ever need. It goes above and beyond the baseline with more involved production and stricter selection, all in pursuit of superior sound. The SELECT Collection brings out the best in all your favorites.

Hand selected and tested, the Ray Tubes SELECT 12AU7 features gold pins for corrosion resistance and improved conduction. The SELECT Collection is a substantial upgrade from both New Old Stock and other new production tubes. Fewer than 5% of production meets our standards.

Introduced in 1946, the 12AU7 was the world’s first noval (nine-pin) vacuum tube. The 12AU7 is a double triode, consisting of two 6C4 tubes in a single envelope. Before the advent of solid-state electronics, it was valued for its versatility and portability. Nowadays, it’s a common sight in the pre-amp phase of tube amplifiers, where it functions as a phase inverter or driver.

Sound Characteristics
SELECT 12AU7 delivers a well-balanced tonal signature with excellent resolution and dynamic sensitivity, providing a clear, transparent, and layered sound presentation.

1. Bass Performance
   Clean, tight, and well-controlled. Its focus on precision and clarity makes it well-suited for fast-paced music. Bass depth avoids excessive weight, ensuring a clean and well-defined low-frequency response.
2. Midrange Performance
   Clear and well-balanced, offering good transparency and resolution. Vocals sound natural with distinct layering and detail. Instrumental sounds are reproduced with accuracy and separation.
3. Treble Performance
   High frequencies extend smoothly with a sense of brightness and airiness. Treble detail is rich, adding liveliness and texture to the overall sound. Ideal for listeners who value purity and micro-dynamic expression in their music.
4. Dynamics and Soundstage
   Fast transient response makes the sound feel crisp and well-articulated. It excels in presenting music with strong rhythmic elements. Soundstage is precise with well-defined layering, enhancing the depth and immersion of the listening experience.

Tech Specs

TechX Guarantee

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