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Seeking tube 12AX7 recommendation for a Conrad-Johnson Premier 3

I recently had my Conrad-Johnson Premier 3 pre-amp restored. It sounds great running with JJ tubes, but I am interested in upgrading the two 12AX7s. Looking for recommendations for upgrade tubes. I know CJ recommends Mullards.

I appreciate any tube advice specific to this amp, but any general 12AX7 recommendations are appreciated.

The other Premier 3 tubes are 5751 (5) and 5965 (2). My tech recommended upgrading the 12AX7s first though.

The CJ is being used as a preamp (phono and CD) connected to a line-level input on a Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II. Speakers are Vandersteen 2CE Signature IIs.
Thanks
arturos73
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
Mullards give you a warm timbre, rich smooth top-end, but very little transparency. Mullards work great when combined with a different tube brand in the next stage.
Check to see what the 5751’s are.

I highly recommend RCA 12ax7 1950s blackplates for warm open sonics with liquid mids and smooth highs.
But it depends what type of sound you seek. For transparent, out of this world 3D imaging...Telefunken. For open, realistic, and excellent  dynamics...Amperex.

This trusted dealer explains the different types of 12AX7s very well.

http://www.audiotubes.com/12ax7.htm



lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
Mullards are pricy. The longplate square getter is the best I've heard, but it's about $400 - 500 per pair. Check out all the versions. The CV4004 is a magical sounding tube.
Also, look at Brimar. Made in UK as well, more extended and dynamic than a Mullard. 

noromance's avatar
noromance
9,938 posts
 
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