12AX7

12AX7
12AX7
ClassificationDual triode
ServiceClass-A amplifier
Height2.2 in (56 mm)
Diameter0.8 in (20 mm)
Cathode
Cathode typeIndirectly heated
Heater voltage12.6 V (series)
6.3 V (parallel)
Heater current150 mA (series)
300 mA (parallel)
Anode
Max dissipation Watts1 per section
Max voltage300 V
Socket connections
Typical class-A amplifier operation
Amplification factor100
Anode voltage250 V
Anode current1.2 mA
Bias voltage−2 V
Anode resistance62.5 kΩ
References
Sylvania 12AX7 datasheet

12AX7 (also known as ECC83[1]) is a miniature dual-triode vacuum tube with high voltage gain. Developed around 1946 by RCA engineers[2] in Camden, New Jersey, under developmental number A-4522, it was released for public sale under the 12AX7 identifier on September 15, 1947.

The 12AX7 was originally intended as replacement for the 6SL7 family of dual-triode amplifier tubes for audio applications. As a popular choice for guitar tube amplifiers, its ongoing use in such equipment makes it one of the few small-signal vacuum tubes in continuous production since it was introduced.

  1. ^ "www.thetubestore.com - 12AX7 / ECC83 Tube Types".
  2. ^ Jung, David (September 2010). "Draw! A 12AX7 'Shootout'". Vintage Guitar: 114.