Amp Valves

Amp Valves: valves and kits for guitar amplifiers

Amp Valves is a UK-based online store that sells valves (also known as tubes) and complete valve kits for guitar amplifiers. Its catalogue is organised in two main ways: by amplifier brand and by valve type or name, so users can find the right replacement for their equipment.

Catalogue by amplifier brand

The site groups kits by amplifier manufacturer. Among the brands listed are Albion, Ampeg, Ashdown, Bad Cat, Blackheart, Blackstar, Bogner, Budda, Bugera, Burman, Carlsbro, Carr, Carvin, Cornell, Cornford, Crate, Diezel, Dynacord, Egnater, ENGL, Epiphone, EVH, Fender, Flynn, Framus, Friedman, Fryette, Genz Benz, Green, Harley Benton, Hayden, Hi-Fi, HIWATT, Hughes and Kettner, Ibanez, Jet City, Kustom, Laney, Line 6, Marshall, Matamp, Matchless, Mesa Boogie, Orange, Peavey, PRS, Randall, Revv, Rivera, Selmer, Silvertone, Soldano, Sound City, Suhr, Supro, Swart, Tone King, Traynor, TUSC, Two Rock, VHT, Victory, Vox, Watkins/WEM and Wharfedale. The store notes that it frequently adds new amplifiers and brands, and offers a contact form to request replacement kits that are not listed.

Catalogue by valve type and name

The selection is also sorted by valve type (pre-amp, power and rectifier) and by specific names: ECC83 (12AX7), ECC82 (12AU7), ECC81 (12AT7), EL34, EL84, KT66, KT77, KT88, 5881, 6550, 6L6 and 6V6. The site also includes a section of bias manuals for Fender, Marshall and other brands, as well as sections for Hi-Fi amplifiers, compressors, accessories and valve sockets.

Informative content about valves

The website publishes technical guides and blog articles. These include a series on guitar amplifier valves covering the EL34, the EL84 and the 12AX7/ECC83, plus an article on cathode bias. The text about the EL34 notes that it was introduced in 1949 by Philips, the parent company of Mullard, and that among the first amplifiers to use it were the Marantz 2 (1955), the Dynaco Mark II (1956) and the Pye Mozart (1956). It adds that Jim Marshall chose it for his JTM45 in 1965 because it was cheaper and easier to obtain in England than the 6L6, and that it was also used in Hiwatt, Orange and Laney amplifiers, as well as in the Canadian brand Traynor. According to the store, the EL34 is no longer made by Philips, but is made by Electro Harmonix, JJ Electronics and Sovtek.

Buying process and guarantees

The site describes a four-step process for replacing valves: find your amplifier, order your new kit, install it and enjoy the sound. It states that all valves are tested before dispatch and come with a guarantee, that shipping is tracked to your door and that payment is made through a secure checkout that accepts all major credit and debit cards.