Tube selection

Beam tetrode aboard Capt Kirk!

Damn it Kitch, I'm an audiophile not an engineer, but I'll try to coax a few more electrons from the Telefunkens before the Klingons are removed from Uranus.

I can relate to Albert's post regarding the low end capabilities of the Sovteks. I recently upgraded from a Modulus 3 to a 3a and have been listening with the Sovtek 6922's before dropping in my Siemens 6DJ8's. While they are not as smooth or cleanly detailed as the Siemens, the bass is just outstanding -- things are not broken in yet so sound may improve a bit more. Have things changed with Sovtek over the past few years? As I recall, the Sovteks that were in my Mod3 in 1993 didn't do anything right.

So far as 12AX7's are concerned, I just picked up some of the Mazda chrome plates from 1963 vintage for the imputs on my amp. This is a very nice tube all the way around. A good balance of smoothness, detail and extension. You may want to consider these as a more lively alternative to Teles and Mullards which might strike the balance you seek. Good luck.

Ouch, Albert! Even at warp speed, us over 50's could never pass a Klingon.
On the recommendation of Leafs, I bought Amperex 12ax7 from Andy at Vintage Tube Services. His choice for a little more top end than the Mullards or Telefunkens. They do sparkle a bit and don't give up anything in the bass. Very balanced.Steve, you should give them a try. Tested as lightly used, they were about $40 each and sound great.

Poulkirk: What properly designed amps do you recommend that cut it on music? I have been stumbling about at this hobby for 35 years and have not tripped over one yet that will not benefit from the the "right/specific" tube for the right application. My amp is so lame that I switch out the input tube 2 to 3 times a day, depending on my fancy.

Dekay, you leave me SO green with envy! Tubes AND Time! (Yes, it has its price, but still...)