What is the Orange Valve Tester MKII?
Just as a treeS age can be persistent by its rings, a guitarist’s journey with tube amplifiers can be measured by the collection of used valves accumulated over time. If you’re anything like me, your storage space is likely overflowing with these components in various conditions.
Using any faulty valves could lead to expensive repairs.
Traditionally, amp technicians have advised replacing valves during maintenance. Instead of discarding these components, many of us tend to stash them away, unaware of their actual condition.Replacing a valve with a faulty one could lead to significant damage to your equipment.
A vintage valve from the mid-20th century might outperform modern counterparts from the few remaining manufacturers. Though,valves can fail unexpectedly,and the manner of their demise varies by type. For instance, a preamp valve might only show signs of wear through unwanted noise, while a power valve like the EL34 or 6L6 could cause catastrophic failures, damaging expensive components in the process.
The anxiety of a potential failure during a live performance frequently enough drives musicians to invest in new valves. Yet, considering that many of those old valves were crafted by legendary manufacturers, it may be worthwhile to evaluate their remaining lifespan.
Previously, valve testing was limited to technicians and repair professionals.
Faulty valves often lack obvious signs of failure, making it crucial for those relying on valve amps to assess their stock to prevent costly mishaps.
Until recently, valve testing was primarily the domain of technicians equipped with expensive testers from brands like Millard and Hickok. These devices were frequently enough intimidating for the average user, requiring a solid understanding of electronics and a meticulous setup for each valve type, which could be time-consuming and prone to errors.
Enter the Orange Valve Tester MKII, designed to empower non-technical users to conduct over 20 automated tests on their valves to assess their functionality. Rather of navigating a complex array of dials and settings typical of traditional testers, this device features a straightforward digital interface that requires minimal technical knowledge.
Specifications
- Price: $1079 | £849
- Origin: UK
- Options: Plug-in expansion modules for EF86, 300B, 6SN7, EZ80, 5AR4/GZ34 ($249 | £199 each)
- Dimensions: 180mm [W] x 165mm [D] x 70mm [H]
- weight: 3.3lbs / 1.5kg
- Contact: Orange
Usability and Performance
In an unusual move, I decided to consult the manual before diving in, and it quickly became clear that Orange has crafted this device for immediate use, even for those without technical expertise. The tester features three clearly labeled sockets for diffrent valve sizes, and I began my tests with a set of Mullard EL34s.
After selecting the EL34 option using the two arrow function controls, I inserted the valve, pressed start, and watched as various LEDs flashed. After about two minutes, the unit emitted a click and displayed a stable reading. It’s advisable to let the valves cool before retesting,as hot valves can be delicate.
The tester includes a simple traffic light-style indicator system for Pass, Worn, and Fail, making it easy to interpret results. Additionally, it provides a rating indicating the operational power available from the tested valve, which can be useful for matching valves in pairs, triplets, or quads for enhanced performance.
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The Orange Valve Tester can display results for both halves of a valve, which is especially useful for configurations like phase inverters.
Testing preamp valves is equally straightforward, with two additional tests. Preamp valves, such as the ECC 83 and its variants, consist of two units that can operate independently. The Orange Valve Tester provides results for both halves, which is beneficial when they work together, as in a phase inverter setup.
Additionally, a microphony test can be conducted on preamp valves by gently tapping the valve with the included Orange-branded pencil.The LED display will indicate a value corresponding to the valve’s condition.
For some less common valve types, such as those used in rectification for vintage and reissue amplifiers, optional plug-in modules are available for purchase.
Final Thoughts
Rating: ★★★★½
the Orange Valve Tester MKII is a premium device, appealing primarily to professionals or those with extensive amplifier collections. While it provides comprehensive insights for guitarists,more experienced technicians may prefer to analyze specific values like thermal leakage individually. it represents a harmonious blend of design and functionality.
Guitar World verdict: Orange has crafted a unit that is both user-friendly and dependable. The testing process is a breeze, taking only two to three minutes. For those seeking detailed reports on specific characteristics,a traditional multi-dial tester may still be preferable,but for quick and reliable valve testing,the Orange Valve Tester MKII stands unrivaled.
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