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Tung-Sol
Tung-Sol 12AU7W / 6189

Tung-Sol 12AU7W / 6189

4.8(63 ratings)

Best price now

$27.99at AmazonChecked Nov 12

Compared across 2 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when. Store links may earn us a commission. As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

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Price facts

  • Last seen at $27.99 at Amazon on Nov 12.
  • Checked at 2 stores.

Our take on the Tung-Sol 12AU7W / 6189

The Tung-Sol 12AU7W / 6189 is a current-production small-signal dual triode that drops into any 12AU7/ECC82 circuit, from preamps and phonostages to buffers and guitar amps. It is sold in graded tiers: Platinum grade offers the lowest noise and microphony with triode balance typically 10% or tighter, while Gold grade runs 15% to 20%. Buyers pick it for quiet operation and dependable service, and matching is included in any quantity. Against NOS 12AU7s it trades collector rarity for consistent supply and low noise; against budget current-production tubes it costs more but is graded and matched.

Best forPreamplifier and phonostage owners who want low noiseBuyers replacing worn 12AU7/ECC82 tubesGuitar amp and hi-fi users who need matched pairs or quadsShoppers who prefer current production over NOS
Pros
  • Fits any 12AU7/ECC82 socket
  • Low noise and microphony, especially in Platinum grade
  • Triode sections matched, typically 10% or tighter in Platinum
  • Matching in any quantity included
  • Current production, so replacements stay available
Cons
  • Grading tiers cost more as you move up
  • Gold grade balance is looser, 15% to 20%
  • Balance can be higher than stated depending on stock
  • Not offered in Driver/Buffer grade
  • Platinum grade is the only tier with the tightest matching

Tung-Sol 12AU7W / 6189 prices at every store

  • Upscale AudioNew

    In stockReturn policy

    $39.95Checked Nov 12
    Visit Upscale Audio
  • AmazonNew

    Availability unknown

    As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

    $27.99Free shippingChecked Nov 12
    Visit Amazon

Store links may earn us a commission.

Tung-Sol 12AU7W / 6189 price history

Lowest price we've seen: $27.99 on Nov 13 at Amazon. Tracked across 1 store since Nov 13.

What reviewers say

  • 4.8 / 563 ratings

Rated 4.8 out of 5 across 63 ratings, the tube is well regarded for quiet operation and solid sound in 12AU7 circuits. Buyers treat it as a dependable current-production pick.

What people mention
  • NoisePraisedOwners report low noise and microphony, particularly with Platinum grade.
  • SoundPraisedBuyers say it sounds great in 12AU7 and ECC82 circuits.
  • ReliabilityPraisedUsers describe the tube as dependable in regular use.
  • MatchingMixedTriode balance is matched, but the tolerance depends on available stock.
  • GradingMixedHigher grades cost more, and the looser Gold grade suits less critical spots.

About the Tung-Sol 12AU7W / 6189

The Tung-Sol 12AU7W / 6189 is a current production vacuum tube made in Russia.

The tubes are graded by noise, microphonics and triode balance. Platinum grade has the lowest noise and microphony and the tightest triode balance available, typically 10% or tighter. Gold grade has low noise and microphonics, with a balance typically between 15% and 20%. Either grade may run higher depending on available stock.

A Driver/Buffer grade is not offered for this tube. For a preamp or phonostage, Gold grade is the minimum recommended. Matching is included for any quantity.

Model
12AU7W / 6189
Origin
Made in Russia, current production
Platinum grade
Lowest noise and microphony, triode balance typically 10% or tighter
Gold grade
Low noise and microphonics, triode balance typically 15% to 20%
Driver/Buffer grade
Not available
Matching
Included for any quantity

Questions and answers

Which grade should I choose for a preamp or phonostage?
Gold grade or better. The maker states that preamps and phonostages need at least Gold grade, and Platinum gives the lowest noise and tightest balance.
Will it work in my 12AU7 or ECC82 amp?
Yes. The 12AU7W / 6189 is a 12AU7/ECC82 type and fits any circuit that takes those tubes.
How closely are the two triode sections matched?
Platinum grade is typically 10% or tighter and Gold grade typically 15% to 20%, though balance may be higher depending on stock.
Is matching extra if I order several tubes?
No. Matching is included in any quantity at no extra charge.
How does it compare with NOS 12AU7 tubes?
It is current production, so supply is steady and noise is low, while NOS tubes vary in condition and availability.
Is a Driver/Buffer grade offered?
No. That grade is not available for this tube; choose Platinum or Gold.
Where is the Tung-Sol 12AU7W / 6189 cheapest?
At Amazon, for $27.99, as of our latest check.
What do buyers say about the Tung-Sol 12AU7W / 6189?
Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 63 ratings.
Where can I buy the Tung-Sol 12AU7W / 6189?
2 stores we checked sell it, including Upscale Audio, Amazon.