Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Ray Vacuum Tubes different from other vacuum tube brands?
At Ray Tubes, we offer vintage sound with modern reliability. Our tubes are handpicked and tested for high-quality audio. You get classic warm sound without needing a second mortgage. They're reliable and built to last. No nonsense.
Where are the tubes coming from?
We want to give you the vacuum tubes you need. To achieve that, we work with multiple contract manufacturers across Asia and Eastern Europe. Because no manufacturer covers the entire range, each manufacturer specializes in different types of tubes. No matter where the tubes are made, each one goes through the same strict quality control process.
What's Ray Tubes' Quality Control Process?
We make tubes that work. We solder each pin carefully and inspect it under a microscope to guarantee the integrity of its vacuum seal. After a 24-hour burn-in to stabilize performance and catch early failures, we test over a dozen critical parameters and record everything under a unique serial number. We match tubes for balanced sound and install them in amplifiers to stress-test them, ensuring low noise even in tough conditions. Finally, our experts listen to them. This is the most important step. If they pass, we pass them on to you.
Why should I choose new production vacuum tubes over New Old Stock (NOS) vacuum tubes?
NOS tubes are scarce, overpriced, and unreliable. Our new tubes aren't. They're hand-selected, tested, and consistent. No aging issues, no performance problems. Just good sound.
What warranty does Ray Tubes offer on their vacuum tubes?
We back our products with a one-year warranty against any manufacturing defects.
What makes the CORE Collection unique?
The CORE Collection is our baseline. These tubes outperform standard factory ones. They meet our strict quality and performance standards. They’re good for audiophiles who want more from their amps.
What is unique about the SELECT Collection?
The SELECT Collection is for those who want an immersive experience. These tubes offer superior clarity, depth, and detail. Each one is handpicked for its exceptional sound quality.
What is the RESERVE Collection?
The RESERVE Collection is made for high-fidelity devices. These tubes focus on vocal realism, detailed treble, and extended bass. They deliver excellent sound. They’re the best we offer. If you don’t like them, find someone else to make your tubes.
How does Ray Tubes select their vacuum tubes?
Our expert audio engineers handpick each tube based on strict criteria like tonal balance, clarity, and durability. This ensures our tubes are more reliable and perform better than vintage ones.
Are the gold pins made of gold?
No, they're not made of gold. Do you know how expensive that would be? They're coated in gold for better conductivity.
Why don’t you offer a 2-, 10-, or 1,000-year warranty policy?
We used to offer 1,000-year warranties. It attracted vampires. We stopped.
What is Magic Coating?
Magic Coating is a monocrystalline carbon coating that improves sound quality. It cools the tubes, blocks unwanted noise, and speeds up electron transmission for a cleaner sound.
It’s the silver metallic coating you see on the glass of our RESERVE lines of tubes.
Where can I buy Ray Tubes products?
You can buy Ray Tubes products from our retailers.
What if I’m looking for a tube you don't carry?
If you're looking for a tube we don't make, let us know at help@raytubes.audio. We’re always expanding our lineup.
Still in the dark after reading our FAQs? Reach out to our support team for assistance.
How can we help?
Our customer support is available Monday to Friday: 9am-5pm Pacific Time.
Oakland is where we hang our hats. It’s a city with a history of hard work and artistry, and that’s something we take seriously. Also the tacos. We take those very seriously. 🌮🌮🌮