What is 4P1L Vacuum Tube?
The 4P1L tube is a versatile directly heated power pentode, highly sought after in vintage audio circles. Known for its linear characteristics and robust performance, this 4P1L tube was originally designed for use in military communication equipment but found a strong following among audiophiles for its exceptional sound quality in various 4P1L tube amplifier designs. Its unique construction allows for both triode and pentode operation, offering flexibility to circuit designers.
For those looking into the 4P1L tube data and 4P1L tube datasheet, it reveals its suitability for applications such as the output stage in single-ended or push-pull audio amplifiers, as well as in 4P1L tube preamp circuits. While not typically a 4P1L rectifier tube, its power handling capabilities make it a strong candidate for driver stages in more complex 4P1L tube amplifier designs. Popular equivalents that share similar characteristics include the 4L1S, 4LS1, RL2, and 4P6, offering alternatives for restoration projects or new builds.
What Are the Popular Equivalents of the 4P1L Tube?
How does 4P1L compare to 4L1S?
The 4L1S is a close equivalent of the 4P1L pentode, sharing similar electrical characteristics and socket configuration, making it interchangeable in most amplifier and radio circuits.
What is the difference between 4P1L and 4LS1?
The 4LS1 is another designation used for tubes equivalent to the 4P1L, offering nearly identical operating parameters and mechanical design, allowing safe substitution.
Is RL2 equivalent to 4P1L?
RL2 is a German designation for a tube equivalent to the 4P1L, featuring the same pinout and comparable specifications, suitable for direct replacement in compatible equipment.
How does 4P6 relate to 4P1L?
The 4P6 is a variant within the same tube family as the 4P1L, with similar construction and ratings, making it a practical substitute in many circuits requiring the 4P1L.
What Are the Pinouts of the 4P1L Tube?
The 4P1L is a versatile directly heated power pentode, often utilized in audio amplifier designs due to its linear characteristics and robust performance. Understanding its pinout is crucial for proper integration into circuits, ensuring stable and optimal operation. This tube typically uses an Octal (UX8) socket.
- Pin 1 (G1): Control Grid
- Pin 2 (K): Cathode
- Pin 3 (G2): Screen Grid
- Pin 4 (P): Plate (Anode)
- Pin 5 (H): Heater
- Pin 6 (H): Heater
- Pin 7 (NC): No Connection
- Pin 8 (K): Cathode
What is averrage price of 4P1L tube?
The average market price for the 4P1L tube varies depending on its condition and origin. This versatile 4P1L vacuum tube is highly sought after for its performance in 4P1L tube amplifier and 4P1L tube preamp circuits, influencing its price. While 4P1L rectifier tubes are less common, the general market for the 4P1L tube reflects its popularity. You can often find detailed 4P1L tube data and a 4P1L tube datasheet from various online tube dealers.
Based on current online listings (eBay, audiophile shops, and specialized tube dealers), here are the typical price ranges for the 4P1L tube:
- NOS (New Old Stock) 4P1L Tube: $25 – $50 USD per tube
- Used 4P1L Tube: $15 – $35 USD per tube (depending on remaining life and matched sets)
What Is the Datasheet for the 4P1L Tube?
| Parameter | Value |
| Heater Voltage | 4V |
| Heater Current | 1A |
| Pin Count | 8 |
| Max Plate Voltage | 300V |
| Max Plate Dissipation | 8W |
| Amplification Factor | (Varies depending on triode/pentode mode) |
| Base Type | Octal (UX8) |
| Typical Use | Audio amplifiers (single-ended or push-pull output stages), preamps, driver stages |
Which factories produced the 4P1L tube?
The 4P1L tube was widely produced in the Soviet Union for radio and amplifier applications, with several factories known for manufacturing this pentode.
- Svetlana — St. Petersburg, Russia (formerly Leningrad, USSR)
- Reflector — Saratov, Russia
- Ulyanovsk Mechanical Plant — Ulyanovsk, Russia
What Are The Best 4P1L Tubes?
Svetlana from St. Petersburg, USSR, is considered the most popular and reputable manufacturer of the 4P1L tube.





