🔊What is 6N8S Tube?
The 6N8S tube is a USSR-made triode vacuum tube, commonly regarded as a close equivalent to the Western 6SN7. It was widely used in vintage Soviet audio equipment and has recently seen a resurgence among audiophiles for its warm sound profile and reliability.
- Type: Double Triode
- Applications: Preamp stages, audio amplifiers, and driver circuits.
- Manufacturers: Foton, NEVZ, and other Soviet-era producers.
📈 6N8S Tube Pinout Configuration
The pinout for the 6N8S tube follows the standard octal configuration typical of most double triodes like the 6SN7
| Pin Number | Function |
| 1 | No connection |
| 2 | Heater |
| 3 | Plate (Triode 1) |
| 4 | Grid (Triode 1) |
| 5 | Cathode (Triode 1) |
| 6 | Plate (Triode 2) |
| 7 | Heater |
| 8 | Cathode (Triode 2) |
| 9 | Grid (Triode 2) |
🎚️6N8S Tube Equivalents
The 6N8S tube has several equivalent models, both within Russian manufacturing and Western tube types. Below are the most common equivalents:
- 6SN7: The closest equivalent, offering similar electrical characteristics and pinout.
- 6SN7GT/6SN7GTA: Variants of the 6SN7 with higher plate voltage ratings and slightly different performance characteristics.
- 6N8: A predecessor to the 6N8S, with slightly different construction but similar performance.
- 1578: A premium version of the 6N8S, known for superior construction and longer lifespan.
Conclusion: The 6N8S can be used as a direct substitute for any of these equivalents, making it a versatile choice for both vintage and modern audio applications.
6N8S vs. 6SN7: What’s the Difference?
Although the 6N8S and 6SN7 tubes are often considered interchangeable, there are subtle differences in construction and performance:
- Build Quality: The 6N8S is generally considered more robust due to its Soviet military-grade construction. Some audiophiles claim it lasts longer in high-stress applications.
- Sound Profile: The 6N8S tends to produce a slightly warmer, richer sound compared to the 6SN7, which is known for its clean, neutral tone. This makes the 6N8S a popular choice for tube amps that prioritize musical warmth.
- Price and Availability: The 6N8S is often more affordable than Western 6SN7 variants, making it an attractive option for those looking to get vintage sound at a lower cost.
Conclusion: While the 6SN7 is more widely recognized, the 6N8S offers a comparable and, in some cases, superior performance at a lower price point, particularly for audiophiles seeking a warmer tone.
📊6N8S tube Datasheet:
Understanding the technical specifications of the 6N8S tube can help you integrate it into your audio equipment more effectively. Below are the key datasheet highlights:
| Parameter | Value |
| Name | 6N8S |
| Type | Double triode |
| Application | LF voltage amplification |
| Cathode type | Oxide, indirect heating |
| Envelope | Glass |
| Mass, g | 37 |
| Filament voltage, V | 6.3 |
| Filament current, A | 0.55-0.65 |
| Anode voltage, V | 250 |
| Anode current, A | 0.0055-0.0115 |
| Anode power, W | 2.75 |
| Grid1 voltage, V | -8 |
| Steepness, mA/V | 2.1-3.1 |
| Reverse grid current, uA | 2 |
| Microphonic noise, mV | 150 |
| Gain | 18.0-23.0 |
| Socket type | rsh5-1 |
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