Aesthetix RCA Phase output question

Here is a link to an old post at Audiogon back in 2001, where much of my tube preferences for the Aesthetix are discussed.

http://audiogo1.iserver.net/cgi-bin/forum5.pl?aamps&980918116&read&keyw&zzaesthetix

The EL 34 is vital to the test and must be replaced before you can test the other types. The GE 5692 is the worst choice in that position, the RCA and Sylvania as well as the VT 231 types are all superior.

Aftermarket vendors for NOS tubes include Vintage Tube (Andy Bauwman) at 616-454-3467 and BWS (Bruce Wenger) at 703-536-3910.

Both are good friends of mine, both extremely knowledgeable about all types of tubes. Try them and see if they have what you need. Obviously since none of these tubes have been made in many years the supplies are variable and may not be available when you want them.

albert, you no longer like the 5692 in the IO?

Yes I like the 5692 in the Io and Callisto, but I don't like the GE, assuming it's really a GE and not a re-branded RCA.

My reference to the EL 34 was in the power supply. The stock Sovtek tubes are so distorted compared to Mullards it makes it difficult to judge the 5692 and 12AX7 tube swaps. Sorry if I confused the issue.

I still use RCA red base 5692 tubes in the Io and Callisto and Mullard EL 34 in the Callisto and Genelex KT 77 in the Io instead of the manufacturer provided Russian tubes. As mentioned in my 2001 posts, the Genelex KT 66 is also a marvelous choice and I still love that tube. As before, the chassis must be punched to run it as it's too tall to clear the cage.