The KT88 fits a standard eight-pin octal socket and has similar pinout and applications as the 6L6 and EL34. Specifically designed for audio amplification, the KT88 has similar ratings to the American6550 which was designed for use as a servo amplifier. It is one of the largest tubes in its class and can handle significantly higher plate voltages than similar tubes, up to 800 volts. A KT88 push-pull pair in class AB1 fixed bias is capable of 100 watts of output with 2.5% total harmonic distortion or up to about 50W at low distortion in hi-fi applications. The transmitting tubes TT21 and TT22 have almost identical transfer characteristics to KT88 but a different pinout, and by virtue of their anode being connected to the top cap have a higher plate voltage rating and a higher power output capability of 200 watts in class AB1 push–pull. The screen grid is sometimes tied to the anode so that it becomes effectively a triode with a lower maximum power output.
History
The KT88 was introduced by GEC in 1956 as a larger variant of the KT66. It was manufactured in the U.K. by the MOV subsidiary of G.E.C, also labelled as IEC/Mullard, and, in the U.S., Genelex Gold Lion. As of 2018, KT88 valves are produced by Shuguang, JJ Electronic, Svetlana, and New Sensor Corporation. NOS examples in good condition are extremely rare. Due to its availability and characteristics, the KT88 is popular in hi-fi production amplifiers. Historically, it has been far more popular with high fidelity stereo manufacturers than guitar amplifier builders, given its characteristics of high-power and low-distortion. Due to these characteristics, it is regularly used to replace 6550 tubes by end users seeking a guitar amplifier tone with less distortion. Some of the amplifiers which shipped with the KT88 power tube include the HiwattCustom 200 and 400 Bass Heads, Sound City L/B 200, 200 wattMarshall Major, Mesa-Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 and Bass Prodigy Four:88, Orange Thunderverb, Reeves Custom 225 bass, Fryette Two/Ninety/Two power amp, Pittbull Ultra-Lead, Sig:X & Deliverance, McIntosh MC2102, McIntosh MA2275, McIntosh MC2301, Splawn Nitro, Pro Mod, Competition & Superstock, Blackstar Series One 200, Carlsbro 200 TC, Bogner Shiva 20th Anniversary, Egnater Tweaker 88 and the Marshall 2203KK Kerry King Signature JCM800.
