EF86 High-Frequency Pentode Triode
The EF86 is a high-gain pentode vacuum tube used as the first audio stage in classic guitar amplifiers. It is classified under tariff item 8540.89.00 for its multi-electrode thermionic construction equivalent to triode-pentode functions. Its low noise and high gain make it a preferred choice for preamplifier stages.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If imported as a part, such as a suppressor grid
Parts of thermionic valves are classified under this subheading.
If imported with shielding or damping accessories
Other parts of thermionic valves and tubes are covered here.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Describe the EF86 as a high-gain pentode thermionic valve on customs documentation to support classification under 8540.89.00
• If importing for use in musical instruments, consider whether the tubes qualify for any reduced duty rates under trade agreements
• Keep records of the tubes' specifications to facilitate CBSA inspection
Related Products under Tariff item 8540.89.00
12AT7 Double Triode Vacuum Tube
The 12AT7 (ECC81) is a medium-gain dual triode vacuum tube essential for audio preamplifiers in guitar amps and hi-fi systems. It is classified under this tariff item as a thermionic tube with multiple electrodes.
1BV7 Photomultiplier Tube Diode
The 1BV7 is a vacuum tube diode-triode used in photomultiplier applications for detecting low levels of light in scientific instruments. It features a photocathode and multiplier stages within a thermionic tube structure.
2C51 Beam Power Triode Tube
The 2C51 is a subminiature beam power triode vacuum tube designed for compact audio output stages in portable equipment. It operates as a thermionic valve with beam-forming electrodes, which places it under tariff item 8540.89.00 for other thermionic valves and tubes. Its small size and high efficiency make it suitable for military and portable audio applications.
6AL5 Electron Tube Diode-Triode
The 6AL5 is a miniature dual diode-triode vacuum tube used in RF detection and FM discriminator circuits in vintage radios. It combines thermionic diode and triode sections in a glass envelope, qualifying it as an 'other' thermionic valve under tariff item 8540.89.00. Its dual-function design makes it a versatile component for audio and radio frequency applications.
6BA6 Pentagrid Triode Converter Tube
The 6BA6 is a heptode/pentagrid triode vacuum tube designed for superheterodyne radio frequency conversion. It functions as a multi-grid thermionic tube, combining triode and heptode sections, which classifies it under tariff item 8540.89.00 for other thermionic valves. Its design enables efficient frequency mixing in radio receivers.
6BQ5/EL84 Power Pentode Triode
The 6BQ5/EL84 is a beam power pentode vacuum tube used for audio output in compact hi-fi and guitar amplifiers. It is a multi-electrode thermionic tube with output transformer coupling capability, placing it under tariff item 8540.89.00 for other thermionic valves. Its high power output and low distortion make it popular in audio equipment.