"KB3IBT Dan K" wrote in message
news:nc6wi.1578$jU4.1482@trnddc02...

"KB3IBT Dan K" wrote in message
news:6vNvi.1387$hK5.1064@trndny02...
Hello All,
I was told by a ham during a QSO that if I buy a matched pair of 6146b's,
I would not need to neutralize them?? Is that true?

Thanks KB3IBT


So why should I get a matched pair?
I could save some money if I don't.


Matched pair implies the tubes will be drawing equal current for a given
grid bias; there is no way to "balance" the tubes in most rigs.

Neutralization is used to cancel unwanted capacitive coupling between
the internal tube elements, which varies by manufacturer and tolerances.

Usually you don't need a "matched pair"; I'd go with new tubes of the
same manufacturer and relatively close production dates. In other
words, don't mix a used RCA 6146A with a new imported 6146B
and expect the tubes to last.