Mullard EL34 that sounds best


Will need a matched quad of EL34 for the VAC Avatar SE integrated at some point. Currently using Svetlana SEDs but I guess Mullard should be better.

What particular Mullard would you recommend and why ?

I use Mullard 12AX7 longplates in preamp and RCA blackplates as driver tubes.

inna

Mullards XF2s are in my VAC Avatar SE. I'll give them a burn in time of a few dozen hours. But it's clear right away that they are far superior to SEDs in every respect. The most striking difference is how well they present the performing space, how at the same time the sound is more coherent and instrument separation is much better. Drums don't jump out of the speakers and Miles's trumpet doesn't scream in my face. Well, I exaggerated a little, SEDs are not bad. And overall, very sophisticated sound with depth and grace.

In fact, the Mullards that I just got improved further after 100 hours of burn in. Either they were virtually new or were not played for some time. Or both.

"Mullards that I just got improved further after 100 hours of burn in” 

Tube amp need to be biased/balanced after 50hr at least after tube replacement.. was this amp tuned after tube-refresh at all??

I am not sure I understand what you are saying. With this VAC at least you just set the bias for new tubes, then check it a few times later and leave it alone. Recheck every month.

correct, tubes initially age at faster rate, thus first 500hr tuneup is needed 50hr-100hr-200hr-500hr.

what I like about JJ tubes is slower aging pace, less tuneups needed, and I suspect therefore Luxman selected them for their amps.