Brief History Of The Tube | Crate Amplifiers V32H specification

V32H GUITAR AMPLIFIER HEAD

Important Information About Tubes and Tube Products:

A Brief History Of The Tube:

In 1883, Edison discovered that electrons would flow from a suspended filament when enclosed in an evac- uated lamp. Years later, in 1905, Fleming expanded on Edison's discovery and created the "Fleming Valve". Then, in 1907, Dr. Lee de Forest added a third component – the grid – to the "Fleming's Valve" and the vac- uum tube was a fact of life. The door to electronic amplification was now open.

During World War II, data gleaned from their intensive research on the detectors used in radar systems led Bell Telephone Laboratories to the invention of the transistor. This reliable little device gained quick support as the new component for amplification. The death of the vacuum tube seemed imminent as designers, sci- entists, and engineers reveled in the idea of replacing large, fragile glass tubes with these small, solid-state devices.

However, there were (and still are) many serious listeners who realized that the sound produced by a "tran- sistor" amplifier is significantly different from that produced by a tube amplifier with identical design specifica- tions. They considered the sound produced by these new solid-state devices to be hard, brittle, and lifeless. It was determined that solid-state devices produced a less musical set of harmonics than tubes. When pushed past their limits, they tend to mute the tone and emphasize the distortion.

Tubes, on the other hand, produce a more musical set of harmonics, the intensity of which can be controlled by the player. This characteristic adds warmth and definition to the sound which has become the hallmark of tube amplifiers. When tubes are driven into clipping, the harmonic overtones can be both sweet and pleasing or intense and penetrating, depending on the musician’s musical taste and playing technique.

Over the years, application engineers have designed a number of outstanding solid-state amplifiers that sound very, very good. Some use special circuitry which enables them to simulate the distortion characteris- tics of a tube amplifier. However, the tube amplifier, still held in the highest esteem by many musicians, offers a classic "vintage" sound in a contemporary market.

Tube Types And Usage:

Tube amplifiers are based primarily on two types of tubes – preamplifier tubes and power tubes. The tubes used in preamplifiers (12AX7, 12AU7, 12AT7, etc.) are smaller than the power tubes. These tubes amplify the signal from your instrument and shape the sound. They are inherently microphonic (mechanically pick up and transmit external noises). Since these tubes are used in the critical first stages of a tube amplifier's circuitry, it is very important to use high-quality, low noise/low microphonic tubes for this application.

Although tubes of this quality may be difficult to find and typically cost more than "off-the-shelf" tubes, the improvement in performance is worth the investment.

Preamplifier tubes are also used to drive the power tubes. When used in this application, a 12AX7 will pro- duce a more distorted tone than a 12AT7, which produces a clearer, sweeter sound. A 12AU7 is even cleaner and brighter than a 12AT7, giving more definition to the sound. (In some cases it is possible to change the sound by changing the type of preamp and/or driver tubes. When making any modification to your equipment, it is highly recommended that you consult with a qualified service center.)

The power tubes are the largest tubes used in an amplifier. These tubes convert the low-level, conditioned signal from the preamplifier into a level that is sufficient to drive the speakers. There are several types of power tubes available, each of which offers a different performance/sound characteristic. For example, the EL34 power tube produces a great Classic rock sound. When an EL34 is driven into distortion it produces a unique sound ("crunch"). When compared to the EL84 and 6L6, the EL34 distorts more quickly, exhibits a

V32H specifications

The Crate Amplifiers V32H is a powerhouse of versatility and performance, designed to meet the demands of guitarists across a range of genres. This all-tube guitar amplifier head boasts a robust and elegant design, showcasing the perfect blend of classic and modern technology that makes it a top choice among musicians.

One of the standout features of the V32H is its all-tube circuit design, utilizing two 6L6 power tubes and three 12AX7 preamp tubes. This configuration delivers rich, warm tones and exceptional dynamics, making it ideal for everything from crisp cleans to saturated crunch. The amp also incorporates a unique variable wattage control, allowing players to switch between 32 watts and a lower, more saturated output for cranked-up tube overdrive at manageable volumes. This feature ensures that players can achieve the sweet spot of tube saturation without overwhelming their surroundings.

The V32H is equipped with two channels: Clean and Overdrive. The Clean channel offers a pristine, bell-like tone with a dynamic response, perfect for jazz, blues, and rock. The Overdrive channel features adjustable gain, allowing for everything from subtle breaks to aggressive, high-gain tones suitable for hard rock and metal. Each channel has its own EQ controls, consisting of bass, middle, and treble, providing musicians with the tools to shape their sound to perfection.

Moreover, the amp includes a built-in reverb, adding depth and ambiance to the overall tone. This feature can be adjusted to taste, enabling players to enhance their sound without requiring external effects. The amp also has a series effects loop, allowing for integration with other pedals and effects, making it even more versatile for live performances and studio work.

Additionally, the V32H is designed with high-quality components, ensuring reliability and longevity. The rugged construction is built to withstand the rigors of touring, while the stylish aesthetics contribute to its professional appeal. With its powerful sound, flexible features, and durable build, the Crate Amplifiers V32H stands out as an exceptional choice for guitarists looking for a reliable and high-performing amplifier head. Whether at home, in the studio, or on stage, the V32H delivers an unparalleled tonal experience.