Tubes for a Conrad Johnson 17LS?

I really liked the Mullard CV2493 in my 17LS. But, I am only comparing it to the stock Sovtek 6922. In my area, availability of NOS tubes is somewhat limited. I found that the Mullard threw a much larger sound stage, particularly from front to back. I did not notice any difference side to side, but that may be room limitations. Also, compared to the Sovteks, the Mullard are a good bit airier.
Someone suggested this first - get really used to the sound of the Sovteks, to give yourself a reference point. Then, when you try different tubes, you can compare to the stock tubes.

I own a 17LS.

I need to replace the tubes. I don't have a lot of funds now for NOS tubes.

EH 6922 seems like a good choice for a stock tube with the CJ preamps.

I also have easy access to a local cryo-facility so may eventually try cryoing the EH 6922 to see what improvement is possible.

Question: There seem to be two types of EH 6922. Those with gold pins (a bit more expensive) and those with non-gold plated pins (not sure if these are steel or nickel-plated).

Are the gold-plated EH 6922 much better? If yes, what are recommended sources to get the gold-plated EH? I can get the regular EH 6922 locally (in Canada) from PartsConnexion or TheTubeStore.

Also for this application is it important to get matched/balanced tubes. Some vendors seem to offer this as a service, typically $5 upcharge. I called CJ and they sell matched/balanced EH 6922 tubes as well, $115 for a set of 4. Does anyone know if the CJ replacement tubes are gold-plated?

Thanks for your input.

Shuang

I use the gold pined EH6922's in my premier 16 and I am very satisfied with them. I can not comment as to their sonic superiority over the non gold pined. You can buy the gold pined ($15.99) and non gold pined ($8.99) 6922's by a venfor on this site. His user name is 4380134d on audiogon; he currently has an active ad running. I have bought from him in the past and can recommend him.

I do not believe cj sells the gold pin version; you would have to ask them. I would not concern myself with matched pairs for signal tubes, such as the 6922's. Only power tubes and then only if you have limited ability to bias the power tubes.

Chuck

Chuck:

I ordered a set (4) of the EH6922 with gold pins. I will post my impressions once I have had a chance to evaluate them. If they work out well, I may order a second set and get them cryoed to see if that makes a difference.

What was the burn-in period in your experience?

Steve

Steve

Good, I hope they work out for you. If memory serves me correctly burn in time was around 50 hours or so. I would be interested in your experience with the cryoed set if you decide to try it.

Chuck