For an EAR 864 pre-amp, Mullard 4004 (not the sweet and syrupy 12AX7). Also, large D getter Sylvania. For 12AU7, I prefer the clear top RCA. As to 6SN7, I'm using late 40s Raytheon, although Ken-Rad and RCA sounded excellent as well (including RCAs from the 1970s-same tube). The chromedome Sylvania was too forward and bright in my application; however, it should be tried in a system which is on the less detailed or warm side. The GEs are also rans, not really good, not really terrible-they sound grainy even from the 1950s. The 1970s-90s Russian and rebranded Russian 6SN7s just suck.
Let's roll: what pre-amp tubes should I consider next?
I am looking for some guidance from experienced vacuum tube amp users. I have a Unison Research S6 (most recent model) which runs six x EL34 power tubes and two x 12AX7 pre-amp tubes.
Having gone NOS in the pre-amp section, I've had great results over the new manufacture Tung Sol 12AX7s that come stock with this integrated. The tubes I've played with are the Philips Miniwatt 12AX7s and the Siemens 12AX7s. I like what both have to offer, but there are differences. The Miniwatts being warmer and contributing to an overall more subtle listening experience whereas the Siemens are more precise, producing a sound that has attack, excitement and thrill in abundance. However, I find the latter can be a bit too much in the upper mid/lower treble region some times. Is there another new manufacture (thinking Psvane?) or NOS (Brimar, Mullard, Mazda) that would give me the best of both worlds? Good tone and timbre while maintaining a sense of involvement through speed and attack?
What are your recommendations?
funcrusha
Having gone NOS in the pre-amp section, I've had great results over the new manufacture Tung Sol 12AX7s that come stock with this integrated. The tubes I've played with are the Philips Miniwatt 12AX7s and the Siemens 12AX7s. I like what both have to offer, but there are differences. The Miniwatts being warmer and contributing to an overall more subtle listening experience whereas the Siemens are more precise, producing a sound that has attack, excitement and thrill in abundance. However, I find the latter can be a bit too much in the upper mid/lower treble region some times. Is there another new manufacture (thinking Psvane?) or NOS (Brimar, Mullard, Mazda) that would give me the best of both worlds? Good tone and timbre while maintaining a sense of involvement through speed and attack?
What are your recommendations?
funcrusha
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- 30 posts total
- 30 posts total