What are the best 5AR4 rectifier tubes? We know the correct answer.
Before we go in-depth about the best 5AR4 rectifier tubes, we must know what a rectifier tube is? A rectifier tube is an inner component of the amp, and only one rectifier tube is necessary for the amp to function. A rectifier tube does not directly affect the guitar’s signal, but it does not mean that it is an unimportant component of the amplifier.
The rectifier is a component where the amp’s alternating current changes into direct current. There are lots of differences between the rectifiers than we know. The amp is more responsive if the rectifier is efficient and quick, and the slowness of the rectifier adversely affects the amp. The 5AR4 (or the GZ34 in Europe) is on the higher side of the rectifier spectrum, so if you have not considered it before, it’s time to start.
Best 5AR4 Tubes – Comparison Table
JJ GZ34 / 5AR4 Vacuum Tube (Editor’s Choice)
5AR 4 vacuum tubes from JJ Electronics are a popular product in the world of guitar enthusiasts. It is also known as the GZ34Octal rectifier tube. JJ Electronics is a famous manufacturer of electrolytic capacitors, vacuum tubes, and audio amplifiers that came into existence in 1993 and were founded by Jan Jurco. His small business became a well-known brand and achieved a reputation in the music industry.
The capacitors and vacuum tubes are used popularly in audio amps and guitars. It is also used in several usages for audiophiles and recording studio equipment.
The company provides a range of preamps, rectifier tubes, and power. Engineering teams with in-house research have developed the products. The result of extensive research in the field of audio resulted in high-end electronics products.
The JJ Electronics is a Slovakian company, and it is one of the largest manufacturing companies of the vacuum tube in the world. JJ rectifier tubes are durable and perform well than other manufacturers. The tubes from JJ Electronics are long-lasting and perform well than many other well-known companies.
Features
- High-performance 5AR4 from JJ Electronics
- Widely known as GZ34
- Octal rectifier tube
- 250mA max DC output current
Pros
- Highly efficient
- Cost-effective
- Great sound
Cons
- Some tubes intermittently flash.
Sovtek 5AR4 SOV Rectifier Vacuum Tube
Sovtek is a Russian brand and suits you well if you are looking for some affordable rectifier tubes. The company manufactures tubes that are used for high-end equipment and instrument amps. The brand knows how to achieve a good tone, and their efforts made it popular instrument manufacturers. Sovtek will perform well if your present rectifier tube fails, and it is a direct replacement for stock rectifier tubes.
The Sovtek tubes are a little pricey and durable. It gives several hours of performance, but the lifespan is average. You will get superior performance for the cost, making it one of the best tubes when considering something extraordinary.
Features
- Full-wave rectifier
- Fast rise
- The perfect option for instrument amplification
- GZ34 equivalent
- Single tube
Pros
- Highly efficient
- Durable
- Popularly used
Cons
- The average lifespan is short.
Fender GT-5AR4 Rectifier Amplifier Tube
Fender is the famous manufacturer of 5AR4 rectifier amplifier tubes that the brand uses in several super champs and deluxe reverb amplifiers. The groove tube line is widely known for its durability and high output.
Please note, GT-5AR4 tubes are designed for high-powered amps that are a minimum of 40 watts or higher, so these shouldn’t be used on low-watt tube amps. These are in the line of the high output rectifier tubes.
When it comes to recovery time, the Fender GT-5AR4 is quick than the factory rectifier tube, which means less compression and sag when playing hard. It is close to a solid-state rectifier without compromising the feel of a tube.
Is it the best rectifier tube on our list? We pick other options as our editor’s choice, but this one is pretty close.
Features
- High out rectifier tube
- Made for high performance
- Includes warranty
- Designed for musical instrument amp applications
Pros
- Cost-effective
- Durable
- Quick recovery time
Cons
- None we could find
Tung-Sol 5AR4 Rectifier Tube
Made in Russia, the Tung-Sol 5AR4 are heavy-duty and premium quality rectifier tubes. These are directly heated rectifier diodes that extend the life than other valves in the amp as they are heated up before applying plate voltage.
These rectifier tubes are known for their vintage construction with reliable and unsurpassed tone output.
This rectifier tube is the top choice for instrument amplification. It features a controlled heater warm-up time and low internal voltage drop.
Features
- Upgrade for all types of 5AR4
- Low internal voltage drop
- Controlled heater warm uptime
Pros
- Highly efficient
- Great performance
- Quick response
Cons
- None
Genalex 5AR4/GZ34/U77 Tube
The Genalex 5AR4 rectifier tube is refined and smooth, which provides balanced output. It offers high-end audio sound. The tube works perfectly with different guitar amps and is known for its robust construction. The European name of 5AR4 is GZ34 and U77 and adequate to use with a circuit that uses a 5AR4 tube.
The tube sound is more relaxed and smooth. The sound stage is somewhat moved back. The real surprise is when the instrument stands up when playing, and when a player is done, it sits down. That adds more dimension and realistic high definition recordings. The significant step up in sound quality.
It is one of the best GZ34 tube equivalents to stock tubes.
Features
- High out rectifier tube
- Made for high performance
- Includes warranty
Pros
- Sound improvement
- Cost-effective
- Superior performance
Cons
- Vibrations observed
Mullard GZ34 / 5AR4 Vacuum Tube
The 5AR4 rectifier tube is one of the best quality tubes that you cannot find at a reasonable price. It allows getting world-class, high-quality tubes that will not be heavy on your pocket. The Mullard 5AR4 tube works perfectly in several different amplifiers, and it has a robust construction. It is compatible with any instrument that uses a 5AR4 tube. The tubes feature ninety days warranty.
Features
- Full-wave rectifier
- Fast rise
- A perfect option for instrument amplification
Pros
- Efficient
- Good quality
- High performance
Cons
- None
Frequently Asked Questions about 5AR4 Rectifier Tubes
Do GZ34 Rectifier Tubes Affect Sound?
A poor GZ34 rectifier adversely affects the tube set. If the rectifier cannot produce the current and voltage required by the power tubes, the tubes cannot amplify up to the required amount, and ultimately the sound will suffer.
When Do 5AR4 Tubes Need a Replacement?
Rectifier tubes are more long-lasting than output tubes. A good quality 5AR4 tubes can last for a decade, depending on the playing style. They do not find it easy to adjust, and if you are happy with the amps, then there is no need to swap the tubes unless there is no failure.
However, if your tube is old and you want the amp to be more responsive and feel tight, you should find some 5AR4 rectifier tube substitution. It can make the sound consistent and easy to control.
Can a 5U4G Rectifier Be Replaced with a 5AR4 Tube?
The 5U4G and 5AR4 tubes are interchangeable to a certain extent. The 5AR4 needs two amps from the PT, and the 5U4G requires three amps. The keyword here is “to a certain extent,” as we’ve already mentioned in our article about the best 6V6 tubes.
Metal-Base vs. Non-Metal-Base 5AR4/GZ34
Metal-base 5AR4 are expensive rectifier tubes, but in general, they produce better results than non-metal 5AR4s. So if you are looking for a 5AR4 substitute and aren’t on a tight budget, it’s your choice.
The Best 5AR4 Rectifier Tube: Our Verdict
А new 5AR4 is a cost-effective option to make your amp’s sound truly clean. These will not put an extra burden on your pocket and come at half the big brand name tubes’ price. These are responsive and give excellent results. If you want to switch from one tube to another, then it is necessary to discuss with the experienced guitar technician unless you are sure that the amp can take a voltage load.
The change can result in the increase of voltage sent to the amp, and if you are not bothered about this, it can lead to damage. Here we have put together some of the best 5AR4 rectifier tubes, and our most favorite one is JJ GZ34 / 5AR4 Vacuum Tube as it is durable and gives superior performance. It is the best gz34 rectifier tube available on the market.