Unlock New Layers of Sound

The SELECT 2A3 is the best 2A3 vacuum tube you’ll ever need. It goes above and beyond the baseline with more involved production and stricter selection, all in pursuit of superior sound. The SELECT Collection brings out the best in all your favorites.

Hand selected and tested, the Ray Tubes SELECT 2A3 features gold pins for corrosion resistance and improved conduction. The SELECT Collection is a substantial upgrade from both New Old Stock and other new production tubes. Fewer than 5% of production meets our standards.

The 2A3 was introduced by RCA in the 1930s for use in large radios, public address systems, and early hi-fi setups. Despite its notoriously complex filament, the 2A3 saw widespread use in military applications and in the post-war high-fi boom. It was also a favourite of Paul Klipsch, who in 1946 invented his namesake Klipschorn loudspeaker.

Sound Characteristics

The SELECT 2A3 takes the iconic 2A3 attributes of high resolution, tonal purity, and minimal coloration and adds the SELECT series’ signature refinement and tonal balance. Whether in low-power amps or high-fidelity systems, the SELECT 2A3 is an ideal choice for audiophiles who seek truth in sound and emotional connection in music.

1. Bass Performance
   Tight, articulate, and naturally paced. Bass extension is moderate but well-controlled, emphasising definition over brute force. Kick drums, double bass, and cellos sound clean and coherent. Overall, it excels in texture, timing, and integration with the rest of the frequency spectrum.
2. Midrange Performance
   Neutral yet gently warm tonality, with an outstanding sense of resolution. Vocals are intimate and natural. Voices and instruments emerge naturally from the soundstage with a sense of air and dimensionality.

Treble PerformanceRemarkable linearity and clarity deliver excellent extension without excessive coloration. Presentation is clean, open, and free from harshness or artificial brightness. Details are precise yet never fatiguing. Overall, well-suited for systems that value realism.

Technical Specifications

• Tube Type: 2A3
• Tube Socket: 4-pin

Filament (Heater) Ratings

• Filament Voltage: 2.5 V
• Filament Current: 2.5 A

Maximum Ratings

• Plate Voltage: 300 V
• Plate Dissipation: 25 W

Interelectrode Capacitance at Zero Bias

• Input Capacitance: 7.5 pF
• Output Capacitance: 5.5 pF
• Grid-to-Plate Capacitance: 16.5 pF

Static Characteristics (under typical conditions)

• Plate Voltage: 250 V
• Grid Voltage: –45 V
• Plate Current: 60 mA
• Transconductance: 5.25 mA/V
• Plate Resistance: 0.8 kΩ
• Amplification Factor: 4.2
• Output Power: 3.5 W

Package Contents

• Matched pair or quad, 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.