Aesthetic Calypso or CJ Et3 or Primaluna Dialogue 3

Hi again Jeff.

So far... I have tried the stock Primaluna 12au7’s... Mullard 4003’s... Mazda 2 and 3 tier mica’s...Brimar 6189 KB/AD’s and the Phillips/Monza 12au7’s made in Italy.[this tube is in a musical league all of its own,and almost non-existent].

For Rectifier’s...

Primaluna 5AR4...Philips 5R4GYS CV717... BRIMAR military grade CV717/5R4GY

The combination that I am using right now are the Brimar rectifiers in line with the 2 mica Mazdas in the first driver stage,the Brimar 6189 KB/AD’s in the second driver stage and Phillips/Monza in the input stage. I like to mix brands as you can see. All tubes have their own virtues and rolling different brands is what makes tube equipment so enjoyable for me. Think of tube rolling as an equalizer, only with a much better quality of sound.

My preamp prior to the Primaluna Dialogue Premium was an Edge Signature-One used in its battery mode. The Edge was and is a great preamp, but in my opinion... could not compete sonically with the PL pre.

Good luck with your search...Mark

GO STEELERS!!!

"For Rectifier’s...

Primaluna 5AR4...Philips 5R4GYS CV717... BRIMAR military grade CV717/5R4GY"

Mark, you like the BRIMAR better than the Philips? Can you give some impressions as to the differences in sound of these tubes?

Thanks,
Dave

Hi Dave. I like both of the rectifier tubes in question. The Phillips have a bit more detail than the Brimar which work well with Mullards in line.The Brimars sound more organic and have more of a natural presence character to them. I really like the Brimars with the Mazda's in the first drive slot,synergistic combo to my ears for sure.

Experimentation with different tubes can pay off big time for any tube loving music lover.
Of course...personal preference is just that...personal ...Either one of the two would be a great choice with high quality 12au7's.

Thanks Mark. The Phillips 5AR4 rectifier tube is outstanding in my MW 9.9 power supply. Approaches magical with Shuguang Treasure CV181-Z 6N7 tubes in the MW 5400ES player's output stage.

Dave