Question about Trey's tubes in his DR...

[GDCSH-1]

So he has a 12AT7 instead of a 12AX7 as the first tube the guitar signal meets, Why? what does it do to the sound/gain? and would you want to do it on a reissure DR?

[cactuskeeb]

Kcanostubes.com is another good source, especially for 1940's era rca power tubes (6v6 variety), which is what (rey uses.  Word to the wise: don't ever use any power tube other than a 6v6 in a DR unless you really know what you're doing, and certainly have a tech bias your power tubes at least once a year and every time you change them out for new ones.  As far as the preamp tubes (12ax7, 12at7) in Trey's amp are concerned, there's indeed one substitution made in the form of a 12at7 placed in the "V2" position; that is, the second tube, when standing behind the amp and counting right to left.  This particular substitution tames the gain on the "vibrato" channel, allowing for a smoother sound.

[cactuskeeb]

And yes, try switching out the second 12ax7 for an at7 in a dr reissue, I think you'll like it, a lot.  Try an old mullard 12at7 first, then an old rca, if the first doesn't suit your bill.