Cube Audio Nenuphar Single Driver Speaker (10 inch) TQWT Enclosure

@ david_ten

Is there a big difference between the EML Mesh and Solid-Plates? Maybe the type of music one listen to is the driving factor on tube type...

Thanks,
Wig

@wig I did not compare the SP to the MP, so I cannot address directly (in terms of experience within my system).

There are other members who know much more about this than I do. @charles1dad is one of those members. I’d reach out to him as he has compared both directly.

My understanding is that:

- the SP has a much longer lifespan.
- the MP needs proper care in matching / compatibility (electronic reasons) with one’s amp.
- there are more reported "reliability" issues with the MP, however this is mostly due to improper matching.

- the MPs have been described to me as being more "ethereal" "extended" "airy" and generally more "glorious" and "magical" in the mid-range over the SP.
- the SP has been described as more "linear" more "neutral" more "robust/dynamic" more "authoritative" and stronger in low frequency performance (versus the MP).

Both are very good options and one’s system’s needs and preferences should, as always, serve to guide a choice between the two.

I was advised to get both. I haven't procured the Mesh Plate version, as of yet. 

[Note: the descriptors used are relative and for purposes of "highlighting" differences]

David,
Your description of the essential differences between the two EML tubes is on the mark and I’d have little further to add. Both are excellent sounding but the mesh plate tube has to be placed in an amplifiers with friendly /gentle operating points. It’s a more delicate tube. The solid plate version is a very rugged heavy duty workhorse (particularly the XLS version).
Charles

Thanks guys 👍

I have owned and used both meshplate and solid plate 2a3s from EML.  I like both types.  I ran a pair per channel in parallel single-ended configuration (Audio Note Kageki amps).  Both pairs lasted a decent amount of time, although the meshplate went out of balance earlier (parallel single ended seems to cause tubes to become unmatched earlier than other types of operation).

The solid plate is more like a conventional 2a3--slightly lean sounding, open on top, tight bass and crystal clear and detailed.  The meshplate bring something else into that same general description--the soundstage seems more expansive (the sound envelops the listener more) and there is a more dramatic presentation of the music--a heightened sense of presence and dynamics.  Whether it is realistic or not, I liked the presentation of the meshplate tube, but, I will also say that this presentation is a bit "phasey" sounding and I can see someone not liking it.