Who makes a decent pair of EL84s these days?

For an 18w build of mine…. Got a buzzing hot glowing tube this morning.

Need some reliable spares. 

Following for interest 

I have been using a J J Electronics EL84 in a Class A amp for several months. My only regret is that I did not install it earlier.

I've revalved a Matchless and Tone King in the last few months with JJ EL84s from Stewart at https://valvetubeguitaramps.com/

No complaints at all.

Jjs

It’s JJs I’ve had trouble with. A supplier with better testing might be the plan.

JJs lasted less than a year in my AC15 and I only used it for maybe 20 rehearsals and 15 gigs. 

I use JJ all the time.

The problem is likely not the valve but the amp. Amps with EL84's often have the plate voltages way too high and screen voltages way too high and then biased to almost melting. Sorting those things will help your valves live longer.

For my money I'd be getting a matched pair of 6P14P-EV valves - I put a single on in my Blackheart Little Giant and I really like it compared to the JJ that was in there before.

Modulus_Amps said:

I use JJ all the time.

The problem is likely not the valve but the amp. Amps with EL84's often have the plate voltages way too high and screen voltages way too high and then biased to almost melting. Sorting those things will help your valves live longer.

I came here to say exactly the same thing

They sure sound good when they're about to explode though, eh?

I've had JJs in my main amp for about 2 years and they're definitely shot now. Still work, but pretty lifeless and lacking bottom end punch.

Modulus_Amps said:

I use JJ all the time.

The problem is likely not the valve but the amp. Amps with EL84's often have the plate voltages way too high and screen voltages way too high and then biased to almost melting. Sorting those things will help your valves live longer.

Source some NOS tubes. Worth it.