🔊What is 6P14P Tube?
The 6P14P tube is a Soviet-era output pentode widely used in audio amplification circuits, particularly in vintage hi-fi systems and guitar amplifiers. Similar to the EL84 and 6BQ5, this tube is known for its robust construction and high-quality sonic performance. Audiophiles and DIY enthusiasts appreciate its unique tonal characteristics, making it a popular choice for tube amplifiers.
6P14P vs. 6P14P-EV: What’s the Difference?
The 6P14P-EV is a ruggedized version of the standard 6P14P, designed to meet stringent military specifications. The “EV” suffix denotes enhanced durability and extended life.
6P14P vs. 6P14P-K: Understanding the Variants
The 6P14P-K is another variant of the 6P14P designed for pulse applications. It’s less commonly used in audio circuits but can be found in specialized equipment requiring precise pulse performance.
📈 6P14P Pinouts
Correctly wiring the 6P14P tube is essential for optimal performance. Here is a detailed pinout configuration for the 6P14P.
This 9-pin configuration is shared with equivalent tubes like the EL84, making it relatively easy to swap in certain amplifier designs.
Pin Number | Function |
1 | No Connection |
2 | Grid 1 |
3 | Cathode |
4 | Heater |
5 | Heater |
6 | No Connection |
7 | Anode (Plate) |
8 | Grid 2 (Screen Grid) |
9 | Grid 3 (Suppressor Grid) |
🎚️6P14P Tube Equivalents
The 6P14P tube is a versatile Russian-made pentode widely used in audio applications, particularly in vintage and modern amplifiers. Its equivalents include Western tubes such as the EL84 and 6BQ5, as well as specialized variants like the 6P14P-EV and 6P14P-K. Below is a detailed look at each equivalent and how they compare in terms of specifications, sound characteristics, and best use cases.
6P14P vs. EL84
The EL84 is the Western equivalent of the 6P14P and one of the most popular pentodes used in audio amplifiers, particularly for guitar and hi-fi applications. Despite being interchangeable in most circuits, there are some subtle differences to consider:
- Filament Voltage & Current: Both tubes share the same filament voltage (6.3V) and current (0.76A), making them compatible in most designs.
- Max Plate Voltage: The 6P14P can generally handle a slightly higher plate voltage, up to 300V, compared to the typical 250V max for the EL84.
- Durability: The 6P14P is known for its rugged construction, making it more suitable for high-stress applications compared to the EL84.
- Sound Characteristics: While both tubes produce a warm, musical tone, the 6P14P is often considered to have a slightly softer midrange, giving it a smoother, vintage sound compared to the brighter EL84.
6P14P vs. 6BQ5
The 6BQ5 is the American designation for the EL84, making it functionally identical to the EL84 in almost all respects. However, when comparing it to the 6P14P, a few distinctions become evident:
- Electrical Characteristics: The 6P14P and 6BQ5 have very similar electrical characteristics, but the 6P14P is typically rated for a slightly higher maximum plate dissipation, making it a more durable option.
- Sound Profile: The 6BQ5 and 6P14P both produce rich, harmonically complex tones. However, the 6P14P’s subtle tonal differences lend it a softer sound in high-gain circuits.
- Reliability: The 6P14P, particularly in its -EV variant, is built to military specifications, offering improved longevity and performance in demanding environments.
6P14P vs. E84L
The E84L is a premium European equivalent to the EL84 and 6P14P, known for its high durability and improved performance characteristics.
- Electrical Ratings: The E84L is built to handle higher plate dissipation and has a higher maximum plate current, making it a more robust choice for high-power amplifiers.
- Sound Quality: The E84L is considered to deliver a more refined sound, with improved clarity and detail, compared to the 6P14P.
- Availability: The E84L is less commonly found than the 6P14P, making it a pricier option in many markets.
📊6P14P tube Datasheet:
Parameter | Value |
Filament Voltage | 6.3 ± 0.6 V |
Filament Current | 760 ± 60 mA |
Anode Voltage (Nominal DC) | 250 V |
Maximum Anode Voltage | 300 V |
Anode Current | 48 ± 8 mA |
Cathode Current Limit | 65 mA |
Second Grid Voltage (Nominal DC) | 250 V |
Maximum Second Grid Voltage (DC) | 300 V |
Second Grid Current Limit | 7 mA |
Maximum Anode Power Dissipation | 14 W |
Maximum Second Grid Power Dissipation | 2 W |
Cathode-Heater Voltage Limit (DC) | 100 V |
Steepness Characteristic | 11.3 mA/V |
Amplification Factor (Triode) | Approximately 20 |
Internal Resistance | 30 Ω |
Cathode Resistor for Automatic Bias | 120 Ω |
Input Capacitance | Approximately 11 pF |
Output Capacitance | Approximately 7 pF |
Inter-Electrode Capacitance | Approximately 0.2 pF |
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- We have many variations of 6P14P tubes (different years of manufacture).
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