Description
Western Electric 300B
The permanence of the essential
At Lyric Audio Élite, we present the Western Electric 300B valve not merely as another product, but as a foundational piece of high fidelity. There are technologies that evolve, and others that simply endure. The 300B belongs to the latter.
Origin and continuity
Developed by Western Electric Since 1938, the 300B has not needed to reinvent itself to remain relevant. Its enduring validity rests on something more solid than constant innovation: a design that was right from the start.
Today, Western Electric continues to manufacture it in the United States adhering to its original specifications, using a handcrafted process that keeps its character and reliability intact.
A way of understanding sound
The 300B does not impress with artifice, but with truth. Its sound is open, organic and deeply human.
Voices acquire a real presence, timbres retain their identity and the music flows without tension or fatigue. It doesn't seek to dazzle on a first listen; it wins you over as the hours pass, when you stop analysing and simply listen.
Silent reference
Over decades, the 300B has become a subtle yet unquestionable benchmark. It is not the most powerful valve, nor the most spectacular in figures, but it is one of the few capable of building a soundstage that is credible, coherent, and emotionally honest.
That is why it remains the natural choice in high-end single-ended amplification and in systems where the priority is not immediate impact, but fidelity to the music.
A decision without shortcuts
Incorporating a Western Electric 300B is, at heart, a statement of intent.
It is choosing a more leisurely, more demanding way of listening and, in a sense, one that is closer to what music truly is.
At Lyric Audio Élite, we offer it in selected units, available in matched pairs, quartets or individual units, always with the standards demanded by a component of this calibre.
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Western Electric 300B
Specifications and features
Sound quality
The 300B is recognised worldwide for its extraordinary sound quality and solid performance in both single-ended and push-pull configurations. Its balance of musicality, naturalness and control makes it a timeless benchmark.
The original
Manufactured by Western Electric Following its original specifications, this valve maintains intact the materials, processes and test standards that have defined its reputation for decades.
Warranty
Each unit is backed by an extended warranty of 5 years, reflecting the commitment to durability and consistency that characterises Western Electric.
Technical data
Classification
Medium-power filamentary triode for Class A operation.
Application
Designed for audio amplification in stages where approximately up to 10 watts of output are required, with relatively low anode voltages.
Construction and assembly
Base
Push-type four-pin base, compatible with Western Electric 143B sockets or equivalents.
It can also be mounted on Western Electric 100M, 115B or similar valve bases thanks to its bayonet pin.
Mounting position
It supports both vertical and horizontal installation.
For horizontal mounting, the filament plane must be kept in a vertical position.
Electrical parameters
Inter-electrode capacitances
- Grid to plate: 15 µµF
- Grid to filament: 9 µµF
- Filament plate: 4.3 µµF
Filament
- Voltage: 5.0 V (AC or DC)
- Rated current: 1.2 A
The filaments are designed to operate at nominal voltage, so it is recommended to keep it as precise as possible.
In the case of alternating current supply, the grid and anode returns must be connected to a centre tap on the secondary of the filament transformer.













Welcome to Lyric Audio’s New Vacuum Tube Section, a rigorous selection for sound enthusiasts
A Lyric Audio, we are proud to present our new section dedicated to vacuum tubes. This collection is the result of years of experience and deep knowledge in the world of High Fidelity audio.
We have meticulously selected each brand based on quality, reliability and the ability to deliver an exceptional listening experience.
Our range includes a variety of vacuum tubes, each chosen not only for its technical performance, but also for its ability to enrich music with pure and exciting sound. We firmly believe that the true magic of audio lies in the details and in the passion for authentic sound.
What we offer:




Alejandro RodrÃguez Davis (verified owner) –
Taking advantage of the year-end sale, I picked up a pair of these iconic valves for my Thivan 300B, and after a few weeks of listening, I couldn't be happier. I've been captivated by them.
All the magic of the triode brought to light… I had never appreciated such a difference just by changing a few valves. I don't know if they're the best 300B in the world, but they have certainly left me fascinated.
The stock Thivan valves are fine, but this is another level. I am enjoying every musical passage like never before.
The price isn't cheap, but it's certainly worth it.
Thanks to Lyric for her advice as always.
Javier Ferreras Calvete (verified owner) –
The sound improvement in my amplifier was noticeable from the very first minute. The soundstage became wider and the timbre improved, which I've noticed especially with instruments like the piano or flute. Delighted with the purchase, due to the improvement in sound quality and also because of the price (there was a great offer at the time of my purchase, thanks) and the fast delivery.
Hugo Luis Sánchez Valero (verified owner) –
These are the best valves I've ever heard apart from military-grade NOS ones. In the Cayin HA-300 MK2 the first few hours were quite uncomfortable because of the burn-in it needs of about 100 hours, but now they sound incredible and every listening session with the headphones is magical.
Mario Alberto Straneo (verified owner) –
Being tubes intended to last for a long time, they require careful running-in. On the web, I only found two truly serious reviews and just one that is completely flawless.
https://audioxpress.com/article/fresh-from-the-bench-western-electric-s-new-production-300b/16252
The serious and technical approach makes one reflect on what the correct bedding-in of a valve like the WE300B entails. The heavy and prolonged stress tests demonstrate the remarkable quality of these valves.
Chinese 300Bs, even the top-of-the-range ones, would have emerged from such tests partially exhausted and compromised. The WE ones, on the other hand, showed improved vacuum, transconductance, and dynamic parameters. At home, I have a three-year-old pair of WE300Bs (still perfect) and a 2025 pair. With the first pair, after intense running-in, I can testify that the parameters improve. When listening, everything becomes clearer and better defined while maintaining the typical sonic signature of a WE 300B but without excesses. It is then up to the designer to manage it by playing with the anode load, the operating point, the driver, the type of coupling, and the power supply. Even with the most classic configurations, it is a valve that knows how to give immensely. With a Zaika, you are disturbed and fascinated by the realism of male and female voices. If you use interstage transformers instead, with important drivers (RE134, RE604 globe, 71A, 45, etc.), you obtain impressive dynamic contrast. It is great to know that valves of this level can be found. Consider that I also own Elrog and EML mesh valves (in addition to all the historical DHTs: PX4, single-plate 2A3, 50, Telefunken AD1, RE604 globe, 45, WE VT52, 10Y, 211, RS237). There you go: these new WEs do not look out of place and have a dignity of their own. Thanks to Lyric Audio Elite, you can manage to get them at an attractive price which, when considering the actual lifespan of these valves (guaranteed), makes them more cost-effective than the polished and flashy Chinese valves that die early.