Tube Dampers - what's the story?

In a word they work. I have Top Hats on my driver tubes (Brimar EC88) and the difference was astounding. Now, I use the word astounding the case of an AudioPhile, I hear it and I can't go back, the average joe may not hear anything. At about $70.00 for a pair you can't miss. If your tubes are the slightest bit ringy, you should try a set. I think they also absorb some of the Rf coming out of and attempting to enter the tube. Mike

Mikeam is correct in my opinion, also try 3M (yes, the Scotch Tape people) their tube dampers are great, also Tube Socks. All of these dampers improve the sound to a different degree, depends on the tube, the damper and the equipment. Like everything else in this crazy hobby, you must listen to decide which one of these solutions is right for you.

Tube dampers are a subjective thing. I used to think they really made a positive difference and then pulled them off and listened-everything bloomed and became dynamic. I think each piece of equipment needs to be reviewed with and without dampers:it is not a concrete fix, also depends on the microphonics of the tubes you install. Years ago manufacturers never had dampers and everything sounded great-I think a slight ringing my enhance the sound of some equipment. Those 3M dampers are lousy in my opinion, they stick to the tube and deform when removed and can't be reused. If the equipment came with dampers-always use them.