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RE: Question: Are 5AR4 and 5R4 interchangeable?

Doggy, hi. If your question is: can I plug a 5R4 into my amp instead of the original 5AR4 without damaging the amps the answer is yes and no. Yes, the pin outs will permit. Yes, it will do its duty as double diode for rectification of AC. The voltage drop across the tube will be larger for the 5R4 than 5AR4 so the B+ and all related voltages will be lower. Here's the kicker. The 5AR4 has a controlled slower heater warm up. Translation. It turns on the B+ more gradually. This is good for power tubes - not having full B+ before all tube filaments are up to operating temperature. Who knows? You may like the sound of the 5R4 better. My unsolicited advice? Add a GE Essential Characteristics hand book to the kennel library and consult often. Every tube hound needs one. Arf and good luck.


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