Brief History Of The Tube | Crate Amplifiers BV-129H, BV-60H

BV-60H /BV-120HAll Tube Guitar Amplifiers

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 evacuated 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 vacuum 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, scientists, 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 "transistor" amplifier is significantly differ- ent from that produced by a tube amplifier with identical design specifications. 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 spe- cial circuitry which enables them to simulate the distortion characteristics of a tube amplifier. However, the tube amplifier, still held in the high- est 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. Althoughtubes 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 produce 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 dis- tortion it produces a unique sound ("crunch"). When compared to the 6L6, the EL34 distorts more quickly, exhibits a "looser" low-end response and produces more harmonics at mid and high frequencies ("creamier" sound). These differences become more noticeable at high- er volumes.

The 6L6 tubes produce a big low-end thump and have a very good dynamic range. They offer a more traditional "American Rock" sound. The 6V6 tubes produce a creamy sound with nice distortion. On the other hand, the KT88 produces a big low-end but sounds more like an EL34 in the mid and high frequencies.

The 6550 power tubes are more rugged and stay cleaner sounding even at full power. When they do distort, the sound produced is more solid and has a tighter low end; more of a "heavy metal" type distortion with lots of power.

Some tubes are available in matched sets. These tubes have been extensively tested for optimum performance and longevity.

BV-129H, BV-60H specifications

Crate Amplifiers has long been a respected name in the world of music amplification, and their BV-60H and BV-129H models exemplify the brand's commitment to quality, performance, and innovative technology. Designed with both amateur and professional musicians in mind, these amplifiers bring powerful sound and versatility to any stage or studio environment.

The BV-60H is a compact, high-performance guitar amplifier head that boasts a wattage of 60 watts. It is perfect for players seeking a balance between power and portability. One of the standout features of the BV-60H is its all-tube design, which provides warm, rich tones that are highly sought after by guitarists. Additionally, the amp includes multiple channels, allowing musicians to switch between clean and overdriven sounds easily. Its built-in reverb adds depth to the overall tonal palette, making it an excellent choice for genres ranging from blues to rock.

On the other hand, the BV-129H amplifies the sound experience with an impressive 120 watts of power. This amplifier head is designed for musicians who need serious volume and punch in their performances. The BV-129H offers a more extensive range of tonal controls, with an emphasis on shaping the midrange frequencies, making it a fantastic choice for lead guitarists who want to stand out in a mix. Its unique EQ controls enable artists to tailor their sound to their specific style, whether they prefer a smooth bluesy tone or a sharp, aggressive crunch.

Both models feature durable construction, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of touring and frequent use. The design includes a robust chassis and high-quality components that not only enhance performance but also extend the lifespan of the amplifiers.

Furthermore, Crate Amplifiers incorporates advanced circuit technology in both models, providing superior sound quality and reliability. This technology minimizes noise and enhances signal integrity, ensuring that musicians can deliver their best performance without interference.

In summary, the Crate BV-60H and BV-129H amplifiers are exceptional choices for musicians seeking power, versatility, and unique tonal capabilities. With their robust features, advanced technologies, and durable designs, these amplifiers stand as a testament to Crate Amplifiers' dedication to quality and performance, making them valuable tools for any guitarist's arsenal.