Opinion on Tube Shields

[ronman]

What is your opinion on the use of tube shields?

[Cliff Schecht]

Without tube shields a lot of high gain amps would pick up lots of radio and other EMI. My Express plays tejano music loud and clear until I put on shields. I don't buy that they alter tone so much..

[David Root]

I think Eric Johnson spoke about this somewhere, IIRC he used shields on some stages and not on others.

Also depends I think on material, aluminum or steel.

[iknowjohnny]

This made me put my shields back on after probably 6 months off. heard no diff...

[selloutrr]

I haven't noticed any negative effects from using them. I like shields on amps that are inverted, if nothing else they keep the tubes from falling out.

[Gibsonman63]

Definitely cuts down on microphonics in my express when the amp is sitting on the cabinet.

[Phil_S]

I omit them until I hear the need. My Express variant has one on V3. It needed one there. V1 and V2 are set a good distance apart from each other and V3. I think this may have allowed me to get away without shields on those spots. I have some difficulty comprehending the discussion about aluminum or steel. I use whatever I've got.

[Structo]

Also, for the noobs, be sure you have continuity from the shield to the chassis.
Some of the anodized shields may not provide the best connection.
When I have used those in the past I made sure to scrape the metal bare where the bayonet lugs touch the shield.

[PCollen]

What is your opinion on the use of tube shields?

Never heard any difference with/without them. But I use them to protect the tubes, and the spring inside keeps the tubes firmly seated in the socket.