Amperex EF86 Mesh Plate Pair – Made in Holland / 6267 Pentode (NOS / Tested Strong)
The Amperex EF86 Mesh Plate Pair is widely considered one of the finest small-signal pentodes ever manufactured. Produced by the Philips conglomerate in Holland (branded here as Amperex for the US market), these tubes are distinct from standard solid-plate versions. The “Mesh Plate” structure€”a fine wire mesh screen visible inside the glass€”is not just an aesthetic detail; it was an engineering marvel designed to reduce microphonics and improve the tube’s shielding characteristics. This specific pair represents the golden era of vacuum tube manufacturing.
Condition and Testing Protocol
We prioritize transparency in the vintage electronics market.
Physical Condition: These tubes are sold as NOS (New Old Stock). The glass is clear, the lettering is visible (featuring the “Made in Holland” mark and “6267/EF86” designation), and the pins are straight. Please note: The original boxes are included but are deteriorated due to long-term storage; however, they have protected the tubes effectively over the decades.
Verification: We have tested this pair using a calibrated Kyoritsu K-119 Tube Tester. As evidenced in the product photographs, both tubes test well into the green “GOOD” zone, indicating strong cathode emission and plenty of life remaining. There are no shorts or leakage indicated.
Sonic Signature
Audiophiles seek out the Amperex Mesh Plate EF86 for its specific tonal character. Unlike modern production tubes, these Dutch-made examples offer a holographic 3D soundstage, a silky-smooth top end that is never harsh, and a rich, harmonic midrange. They are famous for being exceptionally quiet (low noise floor), making them the ideal choice for sensitive phono stages and microphone preamplifiers.
Applications
The EF86 (American equivalent: 6267) is a high-gain, low-noise pentode used in some of the most iconic audio equipment in history:
Guitar Amplifiers: The EF86 channel of the Vox AC15 and early AC30 (providing that creamy, high-gain drive).
Hi-Fi Equipment: Quad II power amplifiers and Leak preamps.
Studio Microphones: Used in the circuit of the legendary Neumann U67 and U47 microphones.
Brand History: Amperex & The Dutch Legacy
Amperex was the North American brand name for tubes manufactured by Philips of the Netherlands. The “Made in Holland” marking is a seal of quality. During the 1950s and 60s, the Philips factory in Heerlen and related facilities produced tubes with strict quality control standards that modern manufacturing struggles to replicate. The Mesh Plate design was an early innovation that was eventually phased out due to high manufacturing costs, making these surviving examples increasingly rare and valuable.
Technical Specifications (Datasheet Summary)
Tube Type: A.F. Pentode (Low Noise).
Base: Noval (B9A).
Filament Voltage: 6.3V.
Filament Current: 0.2A.
Plate Voltage (Typical): 250V.
Plate Structure: Mesh Plate (Fine metal screen).
Getter Type: Halo / Ring Getter.
Markings: Amperex / Made in Holland / 6267 / EF86.
Production Codes: Visible (e.g., 8Y6 – indicating Philips family production).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are these tubes matched?
While we do not have a digital transconductance tester to guarantee a 1% match, the results on the Kyoritsu tester show that both tubes have very similar emission levels, both reading strongly in the “Good” range. They should perform as a balanced pair in most audio circuits.
Why is the Mesh Plate better than a Solid Plate?
The Mesh Plate construction is generally regarded by audiophiles as having lower microphonics (resistance to physical vibration noise) and a more “open” and “airy” sound compared to the later solid plate versions. It was a more expensive manufacturing process used in the early production runs.
Can I use these in my Vox AC30?
Yes, if your Vox AC30 (or boutique clone like Dr. Z or Matchless) has an EF86 channel, these are arguably the best possible upgrade tubes you can buy for tone and reliability.
The boxes look old, are the tubes safe?
Yes. The deterioration of the cardboard boxes is common for vintage items stored for 50+ years. We will pack the tubes in additional protective bubble wrap and a sturdy shipping carton to ensure they arrive safely, regardless of the condition of the original thin cardboard boxes.
