The Best Sounding EL34 Tubes For Your Audio System

Last Updated on March 12, 2023

Some people are fans of EL34s because they sound warm and smooth. Others may prefer their darker, more bassy tones. But, regardless of your taste, there's a definite EL34 that sounds great on your guitar.
One component that can make all the difference in your tone is the EL34 tube, a type of vacuum tube used in many popular guitar amps. In this article, we'll explore what makes tubes so special and look at some of the best sounding EL34 options on the market.

Best Sounding El34
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Comparison Table Chart for Best Sounding El34

Finding the best-sounding EL34 tubes today. Top choice for enhancing your amplifier's performance.

NoProductScoreAction
1Pefei Tweezers Set - Professional Stainless Steel Tweezers for Eyebrows - Great Precision for Facial Hair9.6Check Price on Amazon
2Westmed #0035 25' Purple Kink Resistant Oxygen Supply Tubing - Pack of 19.4Check Price on Amazon
3Purelife Silicone Colon Tube - 4 Ft Length - Attaches Direct to Any Stainless Steel or Glass Enema Bucket- NonToxic9.4Check Price on Amazon
4New Current Matched Pair (2) Electro-Harmonix EL34 Small Bottle Vacuum Tubes9.2Check Price on Amazon
5SURGICAL ONLINE 8 Hegar Medical Dilator Sounds Set 7.5inch Double Ended Instrument (Double Ended)9Check Price on Amazon
6Another Time Another Place9Check Price on Amazon
7AAProTools Bakes Rosebud Sounds Dilator Set of 9 Pieces Stainless Steel A+ Quality8.8Check Price on Amazon
8Svetlana EL34, Matched Quad (4 tubes)8.6Check Price on Amazon
9Cynamed 14 Ea Hegar Dilator Sounds Set 7.5 Inches Instrument Double Ended Hegar Dilator Set Premium German8.4Check Price on Amazon
10Honbay 10PCS 8ml Refillable Clear Empty Lip Gloss Balm Containers Soft Empty Tubes8.2Check Price on Amazon

Guide for Finding the Right Sounding EL34 Tubes

EL34 are the most popular tubes among rock and blues guitarists, and even many jazz guitarists.  EL34 boxes have a distinctly warm tone that is perfect for music styles that require over driven tubes.  However, there is a challenge that many guitarists will have to face.  The lines that we all count on today will be discontinued, and we will have to find replacements for these tubes.  This blog will examine some of the guitarists’ choices for the EL34 box.

What Are EL34 Tubes?

EL34 tubes are a type of power tube that was originally developed for use in audio amplifiers. Guitar amp manufacturers later adopted them due to their unique tonal characteristics. Compared to other types of tubes, EL34s tend to produce a brighter, more aggressive sound with a pronounced midrange.

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What Makes an EL34 Tube Sound Good

The sound quality of an EL34 tube is primarily affected by power output, distortion, and frequency response. Power output refers to the amount of power the tube can deliver to the speakers, which is essential for producing high volume without distortion. Distortion can also impact the sound quality, with some EL34 tubes producing a more natural distortion compared to others. Finally, the frequency response can alter the overall sound of the tube, with some EL34 tubes being warmer or brighter than others.

1. Pefei Tweezers Set – Professional Stainless Steel Tweezers for Eyebrows – Great Precision for Facial Hair

  • MULTI – FUNCTION – 4 in 1 Set, This set contains a pair of classic, slant, pointed, and pointed slant tweezers.
  • DESIGN AND MATERIAL – This durable tweezers set is made of #420 Stainless Steel The Highest Quality Stainless Steel for Long-Lasting Performance.
  • IDEAL FOR TRAVEL OR GIFT – It comes complete in a stylish case that’s perfect for gifting or travel.
  • PERFECTLY CALIBRATED TENSION – Designed to remove ingrown hairs and splinters with ease.
  • HIGH QUALITY – This is made up of four different functional tweezers combined in a fine travel leather holster;Each product enjoys excellent service.

2. Westmed #0035 25′ Purple Kink Resistant Oxygen Supply Tubing – Pack of 1

  • Laytex Free
  • Purple in color
  • Kink Resistant
  • Standard connector
  • Pack of 1

3. Purelife Silicone Colon Tube – 4 Ft Length – Attaches Direct to Any Stainless Steel or Glass Enema Bucket- NonToxic

  • 100% Medical Grade Silicone – BPA and Latex Free – Comfortable Insertion
  • 4 Ft Long x 18 FR – Closed End with 2 Side Holes – Clamp Included
  • Attaches Directly to Your Bucket or Bag – No need for hoses, nozzles and attachments
  • Re-Useable and Will Last For Years of Use – Can Be re-sterilized in boiling water

4. New Current Matched Pair (2) Electro-Harmonix EL34 Small Bottle Vacuum Tubes

5. SURGICAL ONLINE 8 Hegar Medical Dilator Sounds Set 7.5inch Double Ended Instrument (Double Ended)

  • DIALATOR SOUNDS SET: 8pc Hegar Dilator Sounds Set 7.
  • PREMIUM QUALITY INSTRUMENTS: The Hegar Dilator rods are round, slightly curved, and have a conal tip.
  • MEDICAL GRADE STAINLESS STEEL: Forged from premium quality O.
  • PRECISE AND EASY TO USE: The high degree of flexibility and variety of sizes in this set makes it a great all in one kit with high value for the price.
  • SURGICALONLINE QUALITY GUARANTEE: Assembled and inspected in the USA for premium quality, 100% satisfaction guaranteed.

6. Another Time Another Place

7. AAProTools Bakes Rosebud Sounds Dilator Set of 9 Pieces Stainless Steel A+ Quality

  • AAProTools Bakes Rosebud Sounds Dilator Set Of 9 Pieces Stainless Steel A+ Quality
  • Stainless Steel, Gauranteed Satisfaction And Value For Money
  • All Instruments Are Produced With High Quality
  • AAProTools Products Offer A Handmade Touch To Each Instrument
  • Excellent Quality As In The Picture

8. Svetlana EL34, Matched Quad (4 tubes)

  • Matched Quad (4 tubes)
  • Matched for both plate current and transconductance
  • Pronounced midrange
  • Smooth high end
  • Great for rock, metal, and blues

9. Cynamed 14 Ea Hegar Dilator Sounds Set 7.5 Inches Instrument Double Ended Hegar Dilator Set Premium German

  • PRODUCT DETAIL : HEGAR DILATOR SET 14 PCS – 3mm-20mm PREMIUM STAINLESS GYNECOLOGICAL UTERINE TYPE: GYNECOLOGICAL DILATOR SET QUANTITY: 14 Pieces (SAME AS THE PICTURE).
  • SET INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:
  • 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 3mm & 4mm 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 3mm & 4mm 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 5mm & 6mm 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 5mm & 6mm 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 7mm & 8mm.
  • 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 7mm & 8mm 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 9mm & 10mm 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 9mm & 10mm 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 11mm & 12mm 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 11mm & 12mm.
  • 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 13mm & 14mm 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 15mm & 16mm 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 17mm & 18mm 1 PIECE – ANTI-MAGNETIC STAINLESS HEGAR DILATOR DOUBLE ENDED 19mm & 20mm.

10. Honbay 10PCS 8ml Refillable Clear Empty Lip Gloss Balm Containers Soft Empty Tubes

  • Empty Lip Balm Container
  • Pack of 10
  • Material: PE tube + PP cap
  • Capacity: approx.8ml (0.3oz); Total length(include cap): 80mm/3.1inch
  • Perfect for lip balm;aloe vera gel;dispensing oils;ointment;toothpaste;lotion samples, and more

Factors to Consider When buying new sounding EL34 Tubes

The right-sounding EL34 tubes can significantly impact the overall sound quality of your audio system. Here are essential factors when choosing the best-sounding new production EL34 tubes for your audio system.

Power Output:

EL34 tubes come in different power output levels, ranging from 25 watts to 100 watts. Consider your audio system's power output when choosing the right EL34 tube, as a mismatch between power can lead to distortion, significantly affecting the sound quality.

Distortion:

Distortion is a crucial element that can affect the overall sound quality of EL34 tubes. Some EL34 tubes produce a more natural distortion compared to others. If you are a classic rock and blues music fan, you might prefer an EL34 tube with a moderate amount of distortion. On the other hand, if you prefer cleaner sounds, you might want to consider an EL34 tube with less distortion.

Frequency Response:

Frequency response plays a significant role in determining the overall sound quality of an EL34 tube. Some EL34 tubes produce a warmer sound, while others produce a brighter sound. Consider the type of music you listen to and choose an EL34 tube that best fits your musical preferences.

Brand:

Different brands of EL34 tubes can have slightly different tonal characteristics, so it's worth researching which brands are known for producing the sound you're looking for. Popular brands include JJ Electronics, Tung-Sol, Electro-Harmonix and Mullard.

Tone preference:

EL34 tubes are often described as having a warm, rich tone, smooth midrange, and pronounced highs. However, different tubes can emphasize certain frequencies or add unique characteristics to the sound. Think about what kind of tone you're looking for and look for reviews or sound clips of specific EL34 tubes to find one that matches your preferences.


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Why might I prefer an EL34 tube with less distortion for cleaner sounds?


Some guitarists and audiophiles may prefer an EL34 tube with less distortion for cleaner sounds. It allows them to achieve a more natural and transparent tone well-suited for certain genres or playing styles. Here are some reasons why someone might prefer an EL34 tube with less distortion:

1. Clarity:

When EL34 tubes are pushed to their limits, they can produce a lot of distortion, which can sometimes muddy the sound and make it difficult to hear individual notes and tones. Using an EL34 with less distortion can help improve clarity and definition, which is essential for genres like jazz or classical music.

2. Dynamics:

EL34 tubes are known for their dynamic response, meaning they can produce a wide range of tones based on how hard they are pushed. However, excessive distortion can limit this dynamic range and make the sound less expressive. Using an EL34 with less distortion can help preserve the natural dynamics of the music, allowing for more nuanced and expressive playing.

3. Tonality:

Some guitarists simply prefer a cleaner, more natural tone that is not overly distorted. It can be especially true for genres like country or acoustic music, where the focus is on the purity and clarity of the sound. Using an EL34 with less distortion makes it possible to achieve a tonality that is more in line with these genres.

Ultimately, the choice between a high-distortion or low-distortion EL34 tube depends on personal preference and the type of music being played. Some guitarists and audiophiles may prefer a more distorted, overdriven sound, while others may prefer a cleaner, more transparent sound that allows for more dynamic expression.


How To make Sounding EL34 tubes special?

L34 power tubes are very popular as they are considered the “workhorses” of the tube world. These tubes are very versatile and can be used for music from rock to blues to jazz to country. Fender amps, Marshall amps and some Vox amps used EL34s exclusively, and these tubes have a characteristic crunchy overdrive sound when pushed hard.

They are also highly durable and have stood the test of time. Sounding EL34 tubes are made by the Chinese company Tianjin Gold Lion, which has been making tubes for many years and has acquired a good reputation in the industry.

How EL34 can help improve the sound of your music?

The EL34 was the original power tube for the Marshall Super Lead 100 watt amp, widely considered the first 100 watts “Marshall” amp. Most amps were 40–50 watts, and the most powerful were 60 watts. The EL34 was even more powerful and was used to get the higher power output.

Even though the amps were massive, they produced a crisply, clear tone. In recent years, they have fallen out of favor but have enjoyed somewhat of a resurgence, as many players feel they make a better tone than their replacement, the 6L6.

Here are the FAQs :

1. Q: Are all EL34 tubes the same?

A: No, not all EL34 tubes are the same. Different brands and models of EL34 tubes can have varying power output levels, distortion, and frequency response, affecting the overall sound quality.

2. Q: How long do EL34 tubes last?

A: The lifespan of EL34 tubes can vary depending on factors like usage, operating conditions, and storage. On average, EL34 tubes can last anywhere from 2,000 to 4,000 hours before needing to be replaced.

3. Q: Do EL34 tubes need to be biased?

A: Yes, EL34 tubes must be biased to ensure they operate at the correct voltage and current levels. Improper biasing can lead to distortion and can significantly affect the sound quality. It's recommended to have a professional technician perform biasing to ensure it's done correctly.
Learn more about tube biasing here.

4. Q: Are there any particular tonal characteristics associated with EL34 tubes?

A: Yes, EL34 tubes are known for producing warm, natural, and dynamic tones with a smooth top end and well-defined midrange. They tend to have a slightly compressed sound and can produce moderate distortion when pushed hard.

5. Q: What kind of tone should I expect from EL34 tubes, and how can I achieve the best sound possible?

A: When using EL34 tubes, you can expect a warm and natural tone with moderate distortion. To achieve optimal sound quality, matching EL34 tubes with a high-quality audio system or guitar amplifier that enhances their tonal characteristics is crucial. Additionally, experimenting with different brands and models of EL34 tubes can help you find the ones that produce the sound you're looking for. Other factors that can affect the sound include proper biasing, the quality of cables and speakers, and the type of music you're playing.

6. Q: What music type best suits EL34 tubes with moderate distortion?

A: EL34 tubes with moderate distortion are ideal for classic rock and blues music, as they can add a warm and natural distortion to the sound.

7. Q: What is the Mullard EL34, and why is it a top audiophile pick?

A: The Mullard EL34 is a high-end EL34 tube known for its warm, rich, and natural sound. It has a moderate amount of distortion, making it an excellent choice for classic rock and blues music.
Read more about the Mullard EL34 here.

8. Q: What makes the JJ Electronic EL34 a budget-friendly audiophile option?

A: The JJ Electronic EL34 produces a balanced sound and has a lower price point than other EL34 tubes, making it an ideal choice for those on a budget.
Read more about the JJ Electronic EL34 here.

9. Q: What is the Genalex Gold Lion KT77, and why is it considered a high-end EL34 tube?

A: The Genalex Gold Lion KT77 is a high-end EL34 tube with exceptional sound quality. It produces a warm and natural sound, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles who want the best of the best.
Read more about the Genalex Gold Lion KT77 here.

10. Q: Can I use EL34 tubes in any audio system or guitar amp?

A: EL34 tubes have specific power requirements, so it's essential to ensure they are compatible with your audio system or guitar amp before purchasing.

11. Q: Do different brands of EL34 tubes produce different sounds?

A: Yes, different brands of EL34 tubes can produce different sounds based on factors like power output, distortion, and frequency response. It's essential to consider these factors and choose a brand that best suits your musical preferences.


Conclusion: In conclusion, investing in high-quality EL34 tubes can make a significant difference in the sound quality of your amplifier. With the top-rated options on the market, you can experience rich, warm tones and exceptional clarity in your music. Whether you're a musician or an audiophile, upgrading your EL34 tubes is an excellent way to enhance your listening experience.

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