TAD EL84-STR
TAD says the following about their new EL84 power tube:
"The all new TAD EL84-STR tube combines the best of both worlds. We chose the thickest glass option and heaviest construction like the Russian EL84M tube and sonically most promising cathode and plate option to meet and exceed the tonal quality of the JJ/Tesla EL84 tube. Finally we added the gold grid wire to limit stray characteristics and to improve overall reliability. The result is the best EL84 tube currently produced. No compromise!"
Note: These tubes have a slightly larger diameter than other EL84 tubes so they can not be installed into some '90's era Marshall DSL201 or DSL401 amplifiers, some '90's era reissue Vox AC15 amps, and Bad Cat amps.
Other TAD tubes
EL84 Tube TypesAdditional Information and Downloads
Reviews:
EL84 Tube Review
Tube Matching Information:
Power Tube Matching FAQ
Perfect Pair System
Downloads:
TAD EL84-STR Datasheet (PDF)
Download Adobe Acrobat PDF reader
Warranty Information and Return Policy
Warranty Period: 3 monthsAll our tubes are guaranteed for 3 months from the date of purchase. (Any exceptions will be noted on that tube's Warranty tab)
If you receive a tube that does not perform to the manufacturer's specifications, please do the following:
- contact us to get a return authorization
- return it via regular mail within 90 days from when we shipped it, and we will provide an exchange or refund of the full purchase price of the tube.
Returns not related to warranty or defect will be considered at our discretion, and are subject to a 15% restocking fee.
We can not accept returns that don't have an authorization, are past 3 month, or are returned improperly.
These guidelines may be updated without notice.
Ratings & Reviews
11 reviews
Best I've heard in my limited experience.
by Albert
I have a Miniwatt N3, which I had replaced the tubes with a Northern Electric 12AX7 & a pair of the Preferred Series EL84. I tried the TAD EL84s and in my opinion I found them to be on the same level as the Preferred Series after a few hours of playing. I anticipate they'll sound even better after a while.Per the description of "the deepest bass, the highest highs and solid mids," I would have to agree.
great for hifi
by Steve
I got these to put in an old Silvertone stereo console. They replaced a set of JJ'S which sounded best out of what I had on hand. Sovtek, JJ, and Mullard reissue. I liked the JJs a lot in my Fender amp but the were a bit harsh at higher volumes in the hifi. These TADs were like pure silk by comparison. They now have a permanent spot in my hifi equipment. I imagine though that I would still prefer the JJs for guitar.
The closest your going to get to the Preferred Series 7189
by Mike
When I removed the dull Sovtek tubes and put these Tad tubes in my Glow Audio Amp One the sound came alive much better dynamic sound stage and tones. These tubes have a terrific gain to them you will not be disappointed.
Great in Laney Lionheart
by Pete
I have found these to be the best in my Laney Lionheart amps. Sound great and they last pretty long time. JJ, EHX and Genalex just did not last very long in this class A amp. The TAD's last and sound the best in my experience.
Fantastic tube
by Brice H. De C.
I installed those in an Acrosound 20-20 and this TAD is truly an amazing tube. Deep bass, tight mid and high. Well balanced. Also you can torture this tube, it won't fail easily, it's a really robust tube.