BAT VK 5i and tubes, how to chosse?

I thought Id post this as usefull and helpful info for someone looking at tubes for the BAT 5i. Even though the thread is a bit dated now... I ran across it during a search regarding info on BAT 5i pre amps which I own.
I have also replaced the Sovtek 6922's with 6 Siemens 7308 gold pins on the 3 gain stage 6922's in a row for each side. The front outer 2 6922's which are used as AC shunt voltage regulators, I replaced with Amperex PQ(white globe) 6922(not PQ 7308 here) This set up is WAY better than stock and I cant say enough regarding the transformation of sound. Very recommended.

Finally, I have found a pair of Sylvania NOS 6L6 GC and am awaiting their arrival to check out these .As KT_88 found them to sound good in his 5i.

One thing about using 6Dj8 Bugel boys or any 6DJ8 is that they tend to become very microphonic as they age near to the latter part of it's life. Unless your 6DJ8 test very strong, I wouldn't use them is this application, Of course the 6922 was designed to be quieter than the 6DJ8 and the 7308 even more so. I will visit this thread again with news of the 6L6 GC Sylvania and how I liked it. Enjoy!

Would like to update here as I have listened to the Sylvania 6L6GC in the BAT..First of all, Its BIG..Very big. You will have to go topless with this 6L6 as the cover wont fit back on..So you'll have a BAT convertible! This was what I thought might be the case after seeing them in a photo prior to purchasing.As for sound..Very smooth and slightly warmer and deeper bass overall over the stock Sovtek6L6/5881 tube. The real suprise turned out to be a pair of JAN Philips 6L6. Has all the traits of the Sylvania's and you can keep the cover on to boot.

I changed out the 5881's with Sylvania NOS 6L6WGB -military grade, brown bottoms to great effect..I changed the front outer two 6922's with Amperex 6DJ8's orange globe, steel pins made in Holland...awesome tube! I have some Amperex 7308 white labels coming my way soon and will let you know the results. These changes increased resolution, musicality, added real life and flesh to the bone....Ain't this fun?

Hey Larryken-

Just swapped out the JAN Philips 6L6WGB's for the hard to find and awesome Tung Sol 5881/6L6. These are USA NOS from about 1958 vintage according to dates and test better than new. WOW!!! What a smooth sound from these. Easily the best! of allI've used. If you can find a pair, I VERY HIGHLY recommend them!:)

I bougth 8 amperex 7308 qnd 2 tungsol 5881 - the sound became incridible-how is posible to join equipments distant 40 years old in the time and get the most wounderfull sound , one of mysterys.
George