Solid State Rectifier

Solid state rectifier tube that replaces 5U4, GZ34, 5AR4 and 5Y3 tubes.

When using solid state rectification, the rectifier passes high voltage immediately upon being powered up, sending high voltage to the power tubes before they have had a chance to build the 'electron cloud'. THis causes cathode stripping (damage to the cathode) which will significantly reduce the life of the power tubes.

When a standby switch is used, the first 'on' position supplies power to the tube filaments only, allowing the electron cloud to form in the power tubes. The second 'on' position then supplies the high voltage through the rectifier. Using this method of start-up greatly reduces the cathode damage and will prolong power tube life.