RCA 5Y3GT

RCA 5Y3GT Rectifier Tube (NOS Vintage)

The RCA 5Y3GT is one of the most iconic rectifier tubes ever made, and a cornerstone of classic American amp tone. Manufactured by RCA in the USA, this tube helped define the feel and response of early Fender tweed amplifiers and countless vintage hi-fi designs.

In guitar amps, the RCA 5Y3GT is known for its smooth voltage sag, soft attack, and natural compression. It gives small amps that elastic, touch-responsive feel players associate with true vintage tweeds—notes bloom, chords breathe, and the amp feels alive under your fingers. Compared to later or stiffer rectifiers, it delivers a warmer, more forgiving response that’s perfect for blues, roots, and classic rock.

In hi-fi and restoration work, the RCA 5Y3GT is valued for its quiet operation, consistency, and long service life. RCA’s materials, cathode coatings, and quality control from this era are a big reason these tubes are still going strong decades later.

Why the RCA stands out

• Classic vintage sag and compression

• Defines early Fender tweed feel and response

• Extremely durable, long-life NOS construction

• Made in the USA with period-correct materials

Common applications

• Fender Champ, Princeton, Deluxe, and other tweed-style amps

• Vintage hi-fi amplifiers and restorations

• Period-correct builds and repairs

If you want the most authentic vintage rectifier experience—the sound and feel players fell in love with in the ’50s—the RCA 5Y3GT is the gold standard.