2. amps-preamps
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Best tube rolling options for VAC Ren MkIII preamp

I have read most VAC threads on Audiogon and pieced together some information on tube rolling for VAC 300.1a and VAC preamps (Renaissance Mk III is what I own). Was hoping to get in one thread others' experience/POV/advice on what the best tube swapping options have been for their VAC gear, or other high end amps/preamps that take similar tubes (e.g., 12AX7, 12AU7, 6sn7), or if stock tubes from VAC ended up being the best choice. Thanks in advance for any insights. If I'm missing an definitive thread on this pls redirect me.
podeschi
podeschi OP
303 posts
 
Ok i clearly need to make a second run at this! I would let the amp warm up for an hour before critical listening but didnt burn in jan, ken rad etc input tubes. I will do that and give it a second listen. Part of my impatience was tied to others' comments how it was hard to beat vac stock tubes.
podeschi OP
303 posts
 
I should add...what i find hard to replicate is the open extended airy highs of stock 6sn7 tubes
dev's avatar
dev
832 posts
 
Hi Fplanner2010,

okay some initial thoughts with these 2 tubes in my pre.

Most defiantly you can hear a difference from the get go, yes I agree the bass is tighter and deeper, highs are extended and are actually clearer. Would not know this was possible until having placed such in my pre and actually hearing the differences in person. The floor noise has dropped also, more focused.

Will put in some more hours and then place back the original ones to compare, amazing what two tubes can do :-)

Thanks again!
fplanner2010
283 posts
 
Dev- Glad you like them!! I couldn't believe it either, but there is no substitute for hearing them yourself in your own system.

I have about 50 hours on mine so far and they are still improving - probably the best "bang for the buck" improvement I've ever made to my system. :-) Enjoy!!
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