Hi all, Over the past couple of years I have been listening to a DIY - 4P1L Transformer Coupled Pre-Amp.
Kevin Carter of (K&K Audio) &
Radu Tarta of (simplepleasuretubeamps) have both sold these pre-amps over the years. The 4P1L when used in a transformer pre-amp application (4:1
stepdown) is still sensitive to being VERY microphonic.
Plenty of ways to reduce & divert vibration but in the end I have come to the conclusion the microphonic nature of this valve subjectively enhances the SQ presentation. The music sounds more dynamic and more sensitive to music changes.
In a nutshell, I like this subjective presentation, goes against my traditional thinking but who cares, sometimes you are better off accepting the valves limitations and working with its natural advantage, Being a directly heated pentode (4P1L) it has a slightly more aggressive presentation and when used upstream of DHT's provide a nice harmonic combination.
As with all things it's a balancing act, between pleasure & pain.
Microphonic tubes do not make a product sound better. Depending on the tubes and the design is what is needed to sound better. DHT microphonic tubes like 26/226/326/ 101D typically sound better to my ears but you have to isolate them from vibration which is tricky but it can be done.
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