Best 12AX7 for CAL Alpha


anybody use one of these, if so what tubes work best, thanks for any info
mkaes
I was considering selling my Alpha until I tried a pair of Mullard CV4004s. These are the tubes that Upscale Audio recommended to me. I was surprised how this little DAC came alive after they had time to break in. A substantial upgrade over the stock tubes...
I agree the Mullard CV4004's are great! I also liked the Telefunken(ribbed plate) 12ax7's.
I loved JJ Tesla 12AX7s on my Alpha. The stock Chinese tubes were a little faster, the Teslas richer. I also tried GE 5751s and was not impressed -- to slow, too golden sounding. I found myself longing for the fast Chinese tubes.
I have tried the GE Jan 5751, CV4004 and Sovtek. To me 5751 is the best sounding so far. As detailed as CV4004 but more warmth and a little laidback.