2. amps-preamps
  3. 1330541043

EL34 upgrade

I'm currently experimenting with my Jolida JD302B and various tubes. I have 3 makes and each are vastly different from each. In terms of preference I would order them as such: (1) Svetlana, (2) Sovtek, (3) Shuguang. They are all the budget versions. I am considering upgrading to either the SED Winged C or Gold Lion Reissue. So my question, is whether I would expect improvements to the preferred Svetlana? I have a pricepoint of $200 for a matched quad and not sure whether I need to go higher to really hear a difference. Also I'm sure I'm sure there are others, so please weigh them in as well.

-JerseyWalt
qclabrat_1
sabocat59
98 posts
 
Mikirob--I have a JWN amp built by Jim Nicholls. He has told me it is his best effort to date. Here is a review of his work.

http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/1010/master_builder.htm
metman
233 posts
 
I'm also ready to pull the trigger on some of those 6p3s-3 tu bes from Jim Mcshane as well. I'm currently using Genelex Kt66 reissues in my JWN amp and they sound pretty darn good, and I'm a little concerned about them being too similar sounding. Has anyone compared the two? I can also use KT88's and just wondering if I should use the money towards a quad of Penta kt88's instead. The Treasures are too pricey for my blood.
mikirob
955 posts
 
Metman,
I understand these tubes are beginning to get scarce...so, I wouldn't delay too long. I think I have to buy a few more sets myself since I like them in my Cary and Primaluna better than the EL34s, KT88s. I know I am going to get a Leben very soon and they sound even better in that integrated amp.
mikirob
955 posts
 
How much for the jwn amps? I read the referenced article, if true, what Osher stated, type of sound I would enjoy methinks.
sabocat59
98 posts
 
Mikirob, Jim's amps are IMO one of the best values in audio. Send him an email, tell him what you are looking for, and he will give you a price. You will be very surprised at how reasonable and affordable his amps are. For example, I only paid $1500 for my 8 EL34 amp, (minus the cost of the 8 output tubes). It weighs 85 lbs., is overbuilt like a tank, and sounds simply divine, with an estimated output of 100 tube watts per channel. It's driving Dali Helicon 400's.
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