GZ-33 tube in an ST-120 amp

I just put a GZ-33 rectifier tube in place of my GZ-34 rectifier tube in my ST-120 amp, and I swear to God it sounds better! The amp seems faster on the attacks, and overall more detailed. Maybe it's all in my head, or maybe my GZ-34 tube was weak. An added plus: that 5 inch tall tube looks great all lit up!
I know it is common to think you hear "better" results after spending money on upgrades, but I'm just happy that the sound isn't any worse than before the swap. With my highly efficeint speakers (105db/1 watt), it is easy to hear small differences, and I'm convinced the sound is better. That's my story and I'm sticking with it!
I'm still going to put in the Weber Copper Cap rectifier and do a comparison in a week or so, and I'll post my opinions then.

I've heard good things about the GZ-33. And besides, bigger is ALWAYS better!

I just pulled the trigger on a Philips 5R4GYS. Stands almost 5" tall and it's a clear top, so it should light up pretty good.

AssUming nothing explodes. I have it on good authority that it probably won't.

I've also got a copper cap. I expect I'll shuffle that in - gotta build the amp first!

I had two NOS GZ 33 in my VTA ST-70. I also swore that the sound was better than with 5AR4 / GZ34. Unfortunately, they both went bad quickly .

As this got a bit pricey at 100$ a week, I gave up. I hope you have better luck, as I really liked the sound!

Best

Michael

Expensive habit there ... if you ever find yourself feeling that's a reasonable price to pay, I strongly suggest an intervention or 12 step plan ...

Hope I have better luck with my Philips 5R4GYS ... wouldn't want to have to replace that often, even at $40 a pOp!

pic of GZ33 tube[img][/img]

Just got the Philips 5R4GYS in the mail the other day. Here it is compared to the 5AR4 and the copper cap ...



Looks to be about the same size as the GZ-33?

GZ33 vs GZ34[img][/img]