6L6GC
Tetrode · IHT · Octal · 1955
“American workhorse.”
Beam power tetrode rated at 30W for high-power output stages
Datasheet ↗SPICE
TRANSCONDUCTANCE0mA/V
GAIN0%
POWER75%
DRIVE50%
LINEARITY75%
TYPICAL OPERATING POINT
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The 6L6GC is the heavy-duty version of the 6L6 beam power tetrode, originally developed by RCA and later adopted as the defining output tube of American amplifier design. It delivers 30-50W per pair in push-pull with a clean, tight, punchy sound characterized by strong bass, scooped mids, and crisp highs compared to the more midrange-focused EL34. The 6L6GC is the sound of Fender Twin Reverbs, Mesa Boogies, and virtually every American-voiced guitar and hi-fi amplifier. GE, RCA, Sylvania, and Tung-Sol made the most respected NOS versions; current production from various manufacturers is abundant.
APPLICATIONS
High-power output
Fender Twin ReverbFender BassmanMesa Boogie Mark series
• Guitar amp• PA/public address
VS 5881
Pd +30%Full comparison →
HISTORY
Introduced1955ManufacturerGE·Sylvania·RCAEquivalents5881, 7027A
Golden AgeSPECIFICATIONS
Heater Voltage6.3V
Heater Current0.9A
Max Plate Voltage500V
Max Power30W
Sensitivity6 mA/V
Gain Factor—
Internal Impedance—
PinoutOctal
Era1955
RarityCommon
CLASSIC CIRCUITS
Fender Bassman430V · PP
Mesa Boogie Mark Series480V · PP
Fender Twin Reverb470V · PP
