6GK6

Power Pentode — Noval

Tung-Sol

Known Equivalents & Substitutes

6GK6A8GK616GK629GK656395639WA

Similar Tubes (Not Drop-In Compatible)

Similar output pentode but lower transconductance and different pinout

6BQ5

Same as EL84 — similar power pentode with different Noval pinout

6CH6

Brans cross-lists in same group — similar pentode but verify pinout

6CL6

Brans cross-lists in same group — similar pentode but verify pinout before substituting

Functionally similar power pentode but different pinout — not a drop-in substitute

Electrical Specifications

Absolute Maximum

Anode Voltage (max)Max Plate Voltage330V

Screen Voltage (max)Max Screen Voltage330V

Anode Dissipation (max)Max Plate Dissipation13.2W

Screen Dissipation (max)Max Screen Dissipation (average)2W

Cathode Current (max)

Notes

Tung-Sol tentative data sheet (February 1960, Plate #5770). The 6GK6 is described as having an extra reserve of screen dissipation rating and a basing arrangement that gives lower grid-to-plate capacitance compared to prototype tubes.
Maximum plate voltage is 330 V (note A: when heater and positive voltage from storage battery via vibrator, max plate and grid #2 voltages are 275 V and plate dissipation is 9.9 W).
Grid circuit resistance: 0.3 MΩ max for fixed bias, 1.0 MΩ max for self bias.
Maximum cathode current is 65 mA. Maximum grid #2 dissipation is 2 W average, 4 W peak.
Brans Vademecum cross-lists 6GK6 with numerous types in table Vc including 6BQ5/EL84, 6BM5, 6CL6, 6CH6, and 7189A — most are not pin-compatible drop-in substitutes.

Pin Layout — Noval

1No Connection

2Control Grid (g1)

3Cathode

References