Aric Audio Systems Unlimited Preamp

Aric,thanks again! I just ordered a Sylvania 5U4GB and a GE 0C3. Both should be here by Tuesday.

Awesome! You're very welcome and please do let us know how it works out! Best regards, Aric

I’m also very curious to hear how the 5U4GB and 0C3/0D3 combo will sound as compared to the 5AR4 and 0D3/0D3 arrangement. Please report back. I’m currently running a Tung-Sol 5AR4 (vs. the stock Sovtek) and a pair of NOS GE 0D3s. Couldn’t really tell much of a difference is sound quality. I just thought the GE tubes' Coke bottle shape looked a bit cooler. For me, trying different brand(s) of the driver tubes by far made the most difference in the sound signature of the preamp.
Aric, out of curiosity, what would be the effect of running a pair of 0C3s with the 5U4GB?

@kalali I would not recommend a pair of OC3s as the regulators as they'll drop too much voltage which will cause the dropper resistor to absorb too much current and run very hot (hotter than it's rated). Using the 5U4GB I would recommend the OC3 and OD3 which will provide a much more ideal voltage to other components in the preamp. It will drop very little voltage, and provides a slightly more laid back presentation :-) Aric

I misspoke about delivery of the tubes. I should have them by 12/10.  I'm really looking forward to this experiment.