Beyond the Ordinary

The CORE 12AX7 delivers everything you know and love about tube audio. With modern production and uncompromising selection processes ensuring reliability and consistency, the Ray Tubes CORE Collection is all you need for years of audio bliss.

Hand selected and tested, the Ray Tubes CORE 12AX7 vacuum tube is manufactured with modern production and selection processes for reliability and consistency. The CORE Collection leaves the uncertainty of the New Old Stock market behind and makes uneven performance and tube failures a thing of the past.

The 12AX7 vacuum tube was introduced in 1947 as a replacement for the earlier 6SL7 family of dual triodes, all of which were used extensively in audio applications. As one of a handful of small signal tubes that have remained in production since their first use, the 12AX7 is commonly found in the pre-amp stage of tube amplifiers and is especially associated with the emerging electric guitar sound of the 1950s.

Sound Characteristics

The CORE 12AX7 delivers a clear and natural sound profile, perfect for users who prioritize vocal and detail performance, particularly suited for systems that require smooth treble and midrange clarity.

1. Bass Performance
   Tight, with moderate quantity and an emphasis on clarity over depth. Suited for music requiring clear, defined bass without a heavy low-end, making it ideal for rhythmic tracks where bass doesn't dominate.
2. Midrange Performance
   Clear and direct, with prominent detail. Excellent natural reproduction of vocals, especially female voices, which exhibit finesse and transparency with a natural yet vibrant tone.
3. Treble Performance
   Transparent and detailed, offering clarity without being overly prominent.The high frequencies are well-extended but smooth, providing a balanced presentation that remains fatigue-free over extended listening sessions.
4. Dynamics and Soundstage
   The dynamics are well-balanced, particularly for small to medium dynamic changes. The soundstage is focused with precise imaging and clear positioning of instruments, making it ideal for small to medium-sized systems.

Technical Specifications

• Tube Type: 12AX7 / ECC83 / CV4004
• Tube Socket: 9-pin
• Max Anode Dissipation Power: 1 W
• Max Screen Dissipation Power: N/A
• Output Power in Class A1 Amp (Single Tube): N/A
• Output Power in Class AB1 Amp: N/A
• Max Anode Voltage: 300 V
• Max Screen Voltage: N/A
• Max Grid Voltage: ~50 V
• Heater Voltage: 6.3 V
• Heater Current: 0.3 A
• Transconductance: 1.6 mA/V
• Amplification Factor: 100
• Internal Resistance: 62.5 kΩ

Package Contents

• Set of two, or single vacuum tube
• User handbook featuring burn-in guidelines
• Certificate of authenticity and warranty

Compatible Amps

Explore Ray Tubes' Tube Amp Compatibility List.

The Ray Tubes One Year Warranty

Most vacuum tubes are notoriously fickle. That’s why warranties are rare. But we trust our products and we’re proud to offer our One Year Warranty against manufacturing defects. For more details, check out our warranty page.