Korg & Noritake Nutube (Vox MV50, VX50GTV)

Started by gumbo, February 20, 2015, 03:14:53 AM

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gumbo

Read slower!!!   ....I'm typing as fast as I can...

Elantric

#1
Finally a hardware implementation of Korg / Noritake NuTube announced 2 years ago
http://korgnutube.com/en/
http://korgnutube.com/pdf/Nutube_DatasheetV1E.pdf



https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=13674.msg100311#msg100311


Quote
Korg & Noritake Introduce Futuristic Nutube Vacuum Tubes
korg-nutube

At the 2015 NAMM Show, Korg and Noritake introduced the Nutube, a new miniaturized and high performance vacuum tube.

In cooperation with Noritake Itron Corporation, Korg has developed the Nutube to offer improved reliability and efficiency, while still generating the same rich harmonics which vacuum tubes are known for.

korg-vacuum-tube-chip

As with previous vacuum tubes, the Nutube is structured with an anode, grid, and filament, and operates as a complete triode tube, generating the same rich harmonics that are distinctive of conventional vacuum tubes.

By applying technology from Noritake Co., Limited's vacuum fluorescent displays, though, the structure of the vacuum tube has been modified, dramatically reducing its size and allowing it to consume less power.

Korg outlines these benefits to the new 'tube on a chip' technology:

Power Consumption. Miniaturization dramatically reduces power consumption, allowing the Nutube to operate using less than 2% of power required by conventional vacuum tubes and making it easy to power the unit on batteries.
Compact. The Nutube occupies less than 30% of the volume of a conventional vacuum tube. Its small size and low thermal output allows it to be easily mounted directly on a high-density circuit board without using a socket
High reliability and long life. The unique design and state of the art Japanese production facility ensures the Nutubes are built to the highest standard and offer up to 30,000 hours of continuous operating life. The high reliability means that it can be attached directly to the circuit board with confidence knowing that it will not need to be replaced regularly like a 12AX7.
"As an electronic component, a vacuum tube has the disadvantages of being larger than a transistor, having a shorter lifespan, and a higher power consumption, and although many people like the sound of a vacuum tube, historically they have been more difficult to deal with," states Korg's Fumio Mieda, who has helped develop Korg synth going back all the way to the MS-20. "The Nutube sets us free from these many limitations, making it possible for us to think about using it in new products," added Mieda.

The Nutube 6P1 is designed specifically to generate rich harmonics when used with a musical instrument.


http://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/namm-2017-vox-launches-3-revolutionary-nutube-mv50-guitar-amps-646784


Vox MV50
http://voxamps.com/MV50
FWIW - Korg owns Vox and BlackStar)





https://www.thegearpage.net/board/index.php?threads/new-vox-mv50-hybrid-guitar-amp-nutube-with-class-d-power-amp.1783828/

admin

http://www.jetcityamplification.com/retrovalves


No these are not actual tubes. They are analog replacement devices that will work to replace any standard 12AX7 tubes. You dont have to worry about them breaking in transport or wearing out!

RetroValves are 100% analog vacuum tube replacement devices offering the warm, fat, punchy sound traditionally associated with only glass vacuum tubes.

RetroValves are pin-for-pin compatible with 12AX7 tubes in nearly any guitar amplifier, offering instant modification of preamp gain characteristics.
RetroValves are very low noise and have no potential for the microphonics sometimes characteristic of vacuum tubes. And because RetroValves operate with much less heat and consume less power, they reduce stress on the amplifier's electronics.
Use RetroValves alongside vacuum tubes, or replace vacuum tubes in any "cocktail" combination. They operate in any 12AX7 socket, in nearly any guitar amplifier.
RetroValves are so cool and advanced, they're protected by US patents: 7,286,060; 7,408,401; and 7,482,863; as provided under license from ROBERTS AUDIO TECHNOLOGIES.
And, they're so robust, JCA warrants RetroValves to be free from defects in material and workmanship affecting form, fit, and function for the lifetime of the product. RetroValves are only recommended and warranted for use in guitar amplifier products.

AMBER RetroValves are nominally the same gain as a standard 12AX7 and perform as you would expect a 12AX7 would.

BLUE RetroValves are significantly lower gain, effectively "cooling off" the preamp gain.

RED RetroValves are very high gain, allowing the preamp to achieve gain characteristics not possible with standard vacuum tubes.



Elantric

#3
The Japanese FX company "FreetheTone" debuted their NuTube based instrument preamp


thereminator

#4
http://korgnutube.com/pdf/Nutube_DatasheetV1E.pdf

"anode current: 10 - 34 uA"

Is this a joke? All this comedy with a "nutube" is a marketing slam to sell equipment 10 times more expensive than it is worth.

By the way - paying $ 50 for a slightly modified VFD display is a bad deal
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Korg-NuTube-6P1-low-power-triode-vacuum-tube-/222378278144

Elantric

#5
More details here

https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=20515.msg147683#msg147683


FAQ
Technical questions, product specifications, etc.

Q. How much power supply voltage is required to properly operate the product?
A. The operating voltage is from 5V to 80V. Please see the datasheet for more details.


Q. Can it replace a standard 12AX7 tube? Are they interchangeable?
A. As the power supply voltage and pin assignments are different between this product and a 12AX7, they cannot be used interchangeably.


Q. What are the voltage and current of the heater?
A. 0.7V and 17mA for each channel. Please see the datasheet for more details.

Q. Why is the directly-heated type tube used instead of indirectly-heated one?
A. We decided to adopt the directly-heated type tube as it significantly reduces power consumption and also suppresses heat generation.

Q. Can the Nutube be affected by vibrations (i.e., microphonics)?
A. Yes, as the Nutube is a directly-heated type tube, it can be affected by vibrations. Suppressing the microphonic effect can be done more easily than with a conventional vacuum tube, as 'Nutube' does not generate heat.
We are also planning on offering accessories that can be used to suppress any microphonic effect.

Q. Why does the Nutube have such a unique shape while a conventional vacuum tube is usually round-shaped?
A. This unique shape is a result of the product adopting Noritake Itron Corporation's vacuum fluorescent display ("VFD") technology. With the application of this technology, we have been able to achieve higher product quality and longer service life compared to conventional vacuum tubes.

Q. How can a VFD be modified and turned into a vacuum tube?
A. Unfortunately we are unable to answer this question as it involves various patent issues.

Q. How long is the typical service life of the Nutube? What does the term 'expected service life' (as mentioned in the product catalogue) mean?
A. The expected service life of the Nutube when used continuously is 30,000 hours. The term 'expected service life' means the number of hours for which the Nutube will likely be able to operate continuously under normal use.

Q. What kind of sound does Nutube produce?
A. It emits sound that is similar to the sound made a conventional vacuum tube. If you would like to learn more about the characteristics of Nutube, please refer to the datasheet provided. We will be also offering sample boards for evaluation purposes. If you are interested in obtaining them, please send your request using the inquiry form.

Q. I would like to talk with a KORG representative and obtain more technical information. What should I do?
A. Please contact us first using the inquiry form. We will contact you shortly after.

Q. Will I be able to obtain more detailed product information after I sign an NDA?
A. Please contact us first using the inquiry form. We will contact you shortly after.

Q. Does KORG offer product design service?
A. We will be glad to receive your consultation request. Please contact us first using the inquiry form.

Q. What led the company to develop Nutube?
A. The manufacturing equipment that is currently used to produce traditional vacuum tubes for the company has been used for over fifty years. Therefore, the vacuum tubes that are being produced with this equipment contain many defective units as well as significant characteristic variations. They also consume a lot of power. So we decided to apply all the latest technologies that are available to us and developed 'Nutube' – a high quality and battery-operable vacuum tube that is energy-efficient and can be handled with ease – hoping that this novel vacuum tube would bring performance and satisfaction to more people.
Nutube sales

Q. When will the Nutube go on sale? Where can I purchase the product? What is the minimum purchase quantity?
A. The Nutube is scheduled to go on sale in the summer in 2016 or possibly later. As for the product distribution method, minimum shipment quantity, etc., please send us your inquiry using the inquiry form provided. Our sales representative will contact you shortly after.

Q. How much is the Nutube?
A. As for the product distribution method, minimum shipment quantity, etc., please send us your inquiry using the inquiry form provided. Our sales representative will contact you shortly after.

Q. When will the Nutube samples become available? How much will they cost?
A. As for the price and other detailed information, please send us your request using the inquiry form. Also, if you require sample boards, the lead time could be 1-2 months or possibly longer.

Q. Will the Nutube made available for purchase by personal users also?
A. Yes, we are planning on offering the product for sale to personal users as well. As for the distribution method, price, and release date, we will post the information at the company's website when it becomes available.

Elantric

#6
Vox VX50 with Nu Tube



http://www.voxamps.com/VX50Series






VX50KB

The compact and lightweight VX series is joined by a new 50W model, specialized for keyboard and featuring Nutube, the new vacuum tube. With a coaxial speaker that outputs clear sound even to the high-frequency range, and a bass reflex structure that reproduces rich low-frequency sound with ample power, this amp delivers high-quality sound from a compact and lightweight unit. The three-channel design provides an independent volume control for each channel, and CH3 also supports mic input. This amp can also function as a simple and easily transportable PA system. A full complement of input/output jacks is also provided, including an AUX IN jack, headphone jack, and a LINE OUT jack for connection to a PA system. This amp is also ideal for on-stage use as a monitor amp.



High 50W of output power from a revolutionary, lightweight, and compact unit.
The warm vacuum tube sound of Nutube.
Coaxial speaker delivers clear output extending to the high-frequency range.
Bass reflex structure ensures ample output and rich low-frequency reproduction.
Three-channel design, with independent volume controls.
Three-band master EQ for flexibly controlling the sound.
CH3 input can be switched between LINE/MIC, and provides a PHASE switch.
A rich selection of input/output jacks includes AUX in, PHONES out, and LINE out.
Revolutionarily lightweight and compact, with high 50W output

In spite of its high 50W of output power, the lightweight 4.1 kg (9lbs) body and compact design mean that transportation is easy. The one-piece ABS chassis ensures high durability and great sound quality while keeping the weight light.

The warm vacuum tube sound of Nutube

By using Nutube, the new vacuum tube, this amp achieves an output power of 50W while being compact, lightweight, and power-efficient. In addition to enjoying the rich overtones and sonic power of vacuum tubes, you'll also appreciate the clear tone with compression that particularly enhances piano and electric piano sounds.

Coaxial speaker provides clear output extending to the high-frequency range

The coaxial two-way speaker features a powerful eight-inch speaker plus tweeter. From a bountiful low range to clear highs, the output is transparent-sounding while ensuring a sense of volume. Another major advantage is the excellent sense of positioning that you receive from the VX50's coaxial speaker. Even the sparkling highs of a piano or synthesizer will be expressed in every detail.

Bass reflex structure provides ample output power and rich low-frequency reproduction

A proprietary, optimized bass reflex structure is used, with every detail adjusted specifically for the response of keyboard instruments. The chassis uses ABS polymer for its light weight, durability, and excellent acoustic properties. This allows for  a 3D design that would be impossible with wooden material and achieves the ideal cabinet resonance. In addition, wood is used for the baffle, achieving the optimal resonance for a keyboard amp. While the chassis is polymer, a distinctive sense of high quality is emanated by the stony-finish exterior and a white/black color scheme based on a keyboard motif.

Three-band master EQ allows flexible sound control

The three-band master EQ with BASS, MIDDLE, and TREBLE controls is common to the three channels. It provides basic and flexible control that you need to shape your sound.

Three-channel design meets the demands of any scene.

A rich array of input/output jacks

This unit's three-channel design meets the needs of any scene: three keyboards, two keyboards and a mic, or a stereo keyboard output plus a mic. It can also act as a simple PA system. In addition to a master volume, independent volume controls are also provided for each channel 1–3. Furthermore, each channel also has a CLIP indicator to prevent distortion caused by excessive volume. CH3 is also equipped with a PHASE switch. When a mic is connected to CH3, this switch can be used to correct phase interference with instruments that are connected to CH1 and CH2 or to reduce low-frequency acoustic feedback. A full complement of input/output jacks are also provided, including an AUX IN jack for connecting your audio player or rhythm machine to enjoy jam sessions, a LINE OUT jack that can be used for connection to a PA system, and a headphone jack that's ideal for practicing at home.

admin





https://reverb.com/news/ibanez-to-launch-new-nts-tube-screamer-for-2018

Ibanez is set to add another entry to the Tube Screamer series this year, with the release of the NTS, or NuTube Screamer, overdrive.

The pedal incorporates Korg's NuTube technology—also found in amps like the Vox AV50—to add another tube-like sonic dimension to the stalwart overdrive circuit. In addition to Drive, Level, and Tone knobs, this Tube Screamer iteration also has a Mix control to further contour the overdriven output.

The release of this pedal will expand Ibanez's current Tube Screamer lineup to a total of eight pedals, in addition to the vast array of vintage and discontinued models available on the used market. In this, the NTS joins standards like the TS-9, as well as newer additions like the TS-Mini.

admin

#8


https://blog.andertons.co.uk/guitars/vox-namm-2017


https://www.voxamps.com/VX50Series







VX50KB
Stunning lightweight design with serious sound. The compact and portable VX series of amps is joined by a new 50W model, specialized for keyboard, featuring Nutube, the new cutting-edge vacuum tube.

50 watts of output power; NuTube-equipped preamp
8" coaxial speaker; Bass reflex structure enhances low-end
Three-channel design; Three-band master EQ







VX50BA
Stunning lightweight design with serious sound. The compact and portable VX series of amps is joined by a new 50W model for bass guitar, featuring Nutube, the new cutting-edge vacuum tube.

50 watts of output power; NuTube-equipped preamp
8" VOX speaker; Bass reflex structure enhances low-end
Four-band EQ; On-board compressor and overdrive



VX50AG
Stunning lightweight design with serious sound. The compact and portable VX series of amps is joined by a new 50W model for acoustic guitar, featuring Nutube, the new cutting-edge vacuum tube.

50 watts of output power; NuTube-equipped preamp
8" speaker with a tweeter; On-board chorus & reverb
Instrument & Mic channels; Phase switch; Phantom power




admin

#9
newest addition to the Korg / Vox NuTube familiy




https://www.voxamps.com/uploads/SupportPage_Downloads/MINI_SUPERBEETLE_OM_EFGSJ1(3).pdf

----

Vox Super Beetle Mini Stack 1x10 25 Watts

MSRP: $499.99Save:34%
$329.99 (street)
https://www.voxamps.com/MiniSuperbeetle

Description
Killer throwback looks and classic Vox tone in a compact design! The Vox Mini SuperBeetle features new analog NuTube circuitry for authentic tube tone and comes complete with iconic chrome stand and distinctive VOX styling. This is perfect for any Vox fan who wants a great amp for home practice or rehearsal!

Inspired by the legendary rigs used during the British Invasion, the MINI SUPERBEETLE is an instantly recognizable tribute to VOX's iconic early days. With a Nutube-equipped analog preamp circuit and on-board reverb & tremolo, this little amp delivers authentic VOX tone that has to be heard to be believed. The matching speaker cabinet is equipped with a custom 10 inch Celestion speaker that delivers authentic British punch in a compact and stylish package.

The MINI SUPERBEETLE can be paired with nearly any type of extension cabinet, including 1x12", 2x12", or even 4x12"! It also features a headphone/line out jack that's perfect for practicing or recording silently at home or on-the-go.

Vox Mini SuperBeetle Stack Features

Iconic design inherited from the classic stacks of the British Invasion.
Traditional VOX AC tones, powered by Nutube, with a maximum output of 50W (at 4O).
An open-backed cabinet equipped with one 10-inch Celestion speaker.
On-board digital reverb & NuTube driven tremolo.
Speaker output for pairing with a variety of cabinets.
Headphone/Line output for practice or recording.[/i]

hsuru4u

As a guy who still uses older vox ad120vtx and vtx150 amps I feel those amps still hold their own. I havent tried the nutube stuff yet but its crazy expensive to me.

hsuru4u

i like the nutube concept alot but not the pricepoints with it. I would rather get a katana or nextone amp.

admin




http://www.bestdjgearreviews.com/reviews/plankton-electronics-reveal-3-eurorack-modules-that-follow-filter-and-distort/


ENVF
This is an envelope follower in only 2HP with threshold and gain controls and a three option on slope.

SPICEVCF
An analog state variable filter with a XMOD control to add distortion, a SEM-based resonance circuit, and CV inputs for both controls.



NUTONE
A dual channel Nu-tube based distortion. Capable of producing everything from a soft saturation to a hard clip. With individual feedback per channel and sending controls between channels.

They look like a useful bunch of modules and it's great to see Plankton moving on from the awesome little Ants semi-modular.

More information
Plankton Electronics Facebook page.
The post Plankton Electronics reveal 3 Eurorack modules that follow, filter and distort appeared first on gearnews.com.




https://www.facebook.com/PlanktonElectronics/











admin


hsuru4u

#15
Quote from: admin on January 12, 2017, 12:59:06 PM
http://www.jetcityamplification.com/retrovalves


No these are not actual tubes. They are analog replacement devices that will work to replace any standard 12AX7 tubes. You dont have to worry about them breaking in transport or wearing out!

RetroValves are 100% analog vacuum tube replacement devices offering the warm, fat, punchy sound traditionally associated with only glass vacuum tubes.

RetroValves are pin-for-pin compatible with 12AX7 tubes in nearly any guitar amplifier, offering instant modification of preamp gain characteristics.
RetroValves are very low noise and have no potential for the microphonics sometimes characteristic of vacuum tubes. And because RetroValves operate with much less heat and consume less power, they reduce stress on the amplifier's electronics.
Use RetroValves alongside vacuum tubes, or replace vacuum tubes in any "cocktail" combination. They operate in any 12AX7 socket, in nearly any guitar amplifier.
RetroValves are so cool and advanced, they're protected by US patents: 7,286,060; 7,408,401; and 7,482,863; as provided under license from ROBERTS AUDIO TECHNOLOGIES.
And, they're so robust, JCA warrants RetroValves to be free from defects in material and workmanship affecting form, fit, and function for the lifetime of the product. RetroValves are only recommended and warranted for use in guitar amplifier products.

AMBER RetroValves are nominally the same gain as a standard 12AX7 and perform as you would expect a 12AX7 would.

BLUE RetroValves are significantly lower gain, effectively "cooling off" the preamp gain.

RED RetroValves are very high gain, allowing the preamp to achieve gain characteristics not possible with standard vacuum tubes.




wow these are very neat but i think arent avail...:(   that vid was from 2012.lol..i missed that

hsuru4u

I still play a vox ad60 and 120vtx and vtx150 and think they sound better then then new nu-tube amps by vox- i have ab with my older amps.



vtgearhead

Quote from: admin on April 20, 2020, 02:01:13 PM


Talk about making it difficult for yourself!  After prepping properly, heat from above with a hot-air gun mounted on an arm.  Surface tension should pull the part into alignment.  Although, in fairness, that heatsink pad in the middle might require a hot-air bath from below in order to reflow properly.  Alternately, build a reflow oven using toaster oven and electronic control - plenty of plans on the net.


Larsson

Someone on TGP said that he had modified a MV50AC and installed a fx loop and a boost switch. Not much info yet and the pictures are not the greatest, but I hope he'll post more later.

The post where he first told about the modification: https://www.thegearpage.net/board/index.php?posts/30604987/

The new thread opened for MV50 modifications: https://www.thegearpage.net/board/index.php?threads/vox-mv50-mods.2153672/ (no info in this thread yet, only a promise of a schematic)

admin

#21
Quote from: Larsson on May 31, 2020, 02:30:30 PM
Someone on TGP said that he had modified a MV50AC and installed a fx loop and a boost switch. Not much info yet and the pictures are not the greatest, but I hope he'll post more later.

The post where he first told about the modification: https://www.thegearpage.net/board/index.php?posts/30604987/

The new thread opened for MV50 modifications: https://www.thegearpage.net/board/index.php?threads/vox-mv50-mods.2153672/ (no info in this thread yet, only a promise of a schematic)
https://www.file-upload.net/download-14107971/MV50AC_FX_MOD.pdf.html





Tonsound wrote>
my dream came true. look at my avatar.
Delay and reverb is in fx loop. Super light.
Push button is a boost/cleanish option, as far as a ac can be clean.
gave it a green LED for status of boost. took the power from the right blue led which is dimming when the green goes on. When switch is open (no parallel resisitor = boost) it closes the circuit of the green LED.
yes, it is a serial loop, in the picture there is a boss cs2, ce2, ts9, turbo rat, golden brownie before the preamp and a delay an reverb from xvive in the loop. works like a charm. yes, four cable method is it. git to pedals, to mv50 input, send to pedals, then to return of loop, out to speaker..
The cables are thin and shielded (one pole inside, outside the shield, about 2.5mm diameter, not special). I keep the blue one good wraped around the cable string to advoid crosstalk. There is no sonic difference beside that the delay and reverb is much more clear in the loop. The distortion and overall feeling is unchanged. I send my ac30 in retirement.
Now after two days i still enjoy the flexibility. I have unpluged the loop and compared, there is absolute no difference. (tested with strat).

I use a seperate powersupply for devices in the loop to reduce hum and a ground circuit.