Philips (JAN) Two, 6146W NOS Vacuum Tubes Tested 100 % in Original Boxes Date Code 1987

Information on JAN Philips 6146W Vacuum Tubes. These are JAN (Joint Army-Navy) specification 6146W vacuum tubes manufactured by Philips ECG (Electronic Components Group, a division of Philips in the U.S.). The "JAN" marking indicates they meet military ruggedization standards for reliability in harsh environments, such as RF amplifiers in military radios, transmitters, and avionics. The 6146W is a beam power tetrode, essentially a military-grade variant of the commercial 6146/6146A/6146B series, with enhanced durability (e.g., thicker glass envelopes, better vibration resistance, and higher heat tolerance).Key Markings and Production Details

• FSCM 82219: This is the CAGE (Commercial and Government Entity) code for Philips ECG, Inc., confirming the manufacturer.
• DLA900-86-C-0443: This refers to a U.S. Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) contract from 1986 for military procurement. Similar markings on other Philips JAN tubes (e.g., 6188) show contracts like DLA900-85-G-0008, with FSCM 82219 and NATO stock numbers (e.g., 5960-00-181-0465).
• A 1/87: This is the date code, indicating production in January 1987. Tubes from this era are typically equivalent to the 6146B spec (post-1964 updates), with improved ratings over earlier 6146/6146A versions. Pre-1964 6146W tubes align with 6146A, but yours are modernized for higher power handling.

These are New in Box (NIB), which preserves their "New Old Stock" (NOS) status—unused since 1987, highly sought after for their longevity and low noise in audio/RF applications.Technical SpecificationsThe 6146W is a compact, octal-based (8-pin) beam power tube designed for high-efficiency RF power amplification. Here's a summary of key specs (from RCA/Philips datasheets; maximum ratings unless noted):

• Design Notes: Beam-forming plates reduce secondary emission (no suppressor grid needed). The "W" denotes "ruggedized" construction for shock/vibration (up to 1,000G). Typical gain: 12–15 dB in linear amps.
• Applications: Primarily RF linear amplifiers (e.g., Collins, Kenwood TS-530/830S hybrids—though GE versions are preferred for some; Philips works well). Also used in audio output stages, TV horizontal deflection, and industrial transmitters. Not ideal for high-fidelity hi-fi due to potential hum, but excellent for guitar amps or QRP rigs.
• Compatibility Warning: 6146W tubes from 1964+ (like yours) match 6146B specs and may require circuit tweaks (e.g., neutralization capacitors) in older 6146A gear to avoid oscillation. Always test Gm/Ip before use.

These tubes are prized by ham radio operators and tube amp restorers for their robustness—expected life: 5,000–10,000 hours under rated conditions.Current Market Value (as of December 2025)NIB JAN Philips 6146W tubes from the 1980s are collector-grade, with values stable or slightly rising due to demand in the vintage radio market (global vacuum tube sector projected at $3.27B in 2025, per industry reports). Prices vary by testing (Gm/Ip matching), condition of box/labels, and quantity sold (singles vs. pairs). Based on current listings from specialty sellers (RF Parts, Tube World Express, The Tube Store) and auctions (eBay):