[Amps] 3-500z tubes

[Thomas Hix]

I noticed some discussion about the availability of 3-500zg tubes.
I can honestly say that I have sold many 100's of the 3-500zg tubes made in 
China, and they are a great tube......now.
When they first started making the 3-500zg tubes in China, they were real 
DOGS! I mean it was not unusual to have 4 out of 10 fail.....but several 
thousand tubes later, and a few factory manager be-headings later (those 
Chinese take product control seriously) I can say without reservation that 
the present 3-500zg tubes made by Taylor, are as good as you will 
find.....period. It is very unusual to have a failure in the present day 
3-500zg tubes from China.
On the other hand, I have heard several horror stories from the guys that 
are buying new amps with the 3-500zg tubes which are made in Europe 
installed in them new from the factory. I personally know of 4 people who 
have bought brand new amps with the European made 3-500zg tubes in them, and 
they have had to have their tubes replaced under warranty. One guy is on his 
3rd tube in 12 months....I wonder if maybe he is not a little rough on his 
tubes, but he says he is not.
So if you are thinking of new tubes for a 3-500z amp, dont be afraid of the 
Chinese tubes.....they are really the best buy for the buck......I wouldn't 
sell them if they wernt.....I could not afford the shipping cost on 
replacements (which I pay both ways....yes both ways..... if the tubes were 
failing all the time.
I have the Taylor 3-500zg tubes in stock at all times (or try to anyway hi 
hi). The ones I sell are fully tested and have a full warranty. I stand 
behind my tubes 100%
You can check them out at http://www.tomstubes.com
73
Tom....w4th







Tom's Tubes: Specializing in Amateur Radio Amplifier Tubes & Sockets, CT 
Brand CW Keys, & G3SEK Triode/Tetrode Boards and Kits. 
http://www.tomstubes.com

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