Welcome to all those looking to learn more about vacuum tubes
Vacuum Tubes
Vacuum tube technology has been in existence for over 100 years, serving as a cornerstone in the field of electronics. This website was created to unite collectors and enthusiasts by providing a rich repository of knowledge and visual verification for these remarkable devices.
Exploring the Hobby of Vacuum Tube Collecting
For many, vacuum tube collecting is more than just a hobby—it's a passion. This site aims to spotlight various aspects of tube collecting, including identification, historical significance, and guidance on where to purchase tubes.
Purchase vacuum tubes!
Robert M. Gillespie
This site is managed by Robert M. Gillespie, the esteemed owner of the Tyne Collection. Explore part of his collection and learn about his extensive contributions to the field.
Robert M. Gillespie has dedicated over 40 years to the study and collection of vacuum tubes. His primary focus has been on the construction and early development of these devices, particularly the advancements made during and following World War I. These early triode tubes laid the groundwork for modern electronics, leading ultimately to the development of the transistor.
Collecting Journey
Robert M. Gillespie's journey into the world of vacuum tubes began as a hobby. He was part of the Tube Collectors Association (TCA). After 30 years, Robert has taken on a leadership role after many original members aged out. He is now the young guy managing tubecollectors.org.
Robert is also the proud owner of the Gerald Tyne Collection from the book Saga of the Vacuum Tube, published in 1977. This collection is renowned as one of the most comprehensive vacuum tube archives ever assembled. In the future, this website will feature a dedicated photo gallery of the collection.
Robert is also the proud owner of the Gerald Tyne Collection from the book Saga of the Vacuum Tube, published in 1977. This collection is renowned as one of the most comprehensive vacuum tube archives ever assembled. In the future, this website will feature a dedicated photo gallery of the collection.
Ongoing Efforts for a Physical Museum
We are actively working towards establishing a physical museum display to house and exhibit our extensive vacuum tube collection. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting project.
Who We Are
We are a family-owned business based in Virginia. As a hobbyist and now a collector and seller, we currently have an inventory of nearly 2,000 vacuum tubes for sale. In addition to our online store, we also offer testing using Amplitrex equipment. We carry Western Electric, Tung-Sol, RCA, Cunningham, etc. You name it, we probably have it.
Supporting Our Efforts
Donations Welcome
We welcome donations of tubes to support the storage and maintenance of our extensive collection. Your contributions are invaluable in preserving this important part of technological history.
Good Support
We sell tubes on eBay to help cover the costs of maintaining our extensive vacuum tube collection. Your purchases directly support our preservation efforts.