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Most Musical 6NS7 tube for a Preamp?

A request for recommendations by those with experience with different 6SN7 tubes.

My system so far is a Pass Labs XA25 SS Amp, and a circa 1988 Tannoy FSMs.
The speakers operate at 4 ohms with a 94 sensitivity.

The room size is medium. Acoustically well treated.

I listen at lower volumes 60-75db. Vocals mostly.

I am looking for the most musical preamp, with a remote.

Budget is $3k. Used preferred. Better value.

Not considering anything from Schiit Audio.

Considering- Supratek Chardonnay.

Any other suggestions?

Tube Ideas?

Thank you!
chorus
pmiller115's avatar
pmiller115
97 posts
 
Try contacting "Andy" at Vintage Tube Service. The link is http://vintagetubeservices.com/mini-tubes-2/ 
I have a modwright modded Oppo 105D and I struggled for a while finding the right tubes. Andy was -and I believe- still would be very patient and very helpful in steering me in the right direction. He also ships as he promises he will and, probably, will allow you to return tubes that are not to your liking. Good luck, I feel, or did feel, your pain in this endeavor. 
pmiller115's avatar
pmiller115
97 posts
 
Try contacting Andy Bowman at Vintage Tube Services. He sounds as though he has been around for a while and he is both patient and very helpful. I have a Modwright modded Oppo 105D and I struggled to find the right tubes. Andy was very helpful in steering me through the congested 6sn7 tube market. The link to his sight is http://vintagetubeservices.com/mini-tubes-2/ 
 Andy ships when he say he will and I believe he may allow you to return tubes not to your liking. Good luck, I feel, or did feel, your pain in pursuing this endeavor. Good luck.
kw6
692 posts
 
Chorus I am in same boat looking to upgrade my cjet3se.  My dream pre is the Vinnie Rossi L2. I own a Pass Xa25 too. It needs a little helping of sugar to balance the sound. This amp as the continueness of tubes with speed and detail most tubes can't match. I am looking at Prima Luna Evo 300 Cary slp 98l. Only problem with these is they come with off the shelf volume Alps pot. Even Jadis uses Alps.😒 It's ok but not SOTA. Let me know what you end up with.
kw6
692 posts
 
LTA MZ2 is not a good match for the Pass. I'm selling mine. The combo has great bass but too clean. No air or lush mids.
chorus OP
976 posts
 
Preamp finalists:

1. Cary SLP 5 -used $3-$3.5k
2. Supratek Chardonnay -New $2k
3. deHavilland Ultraverve- used $2k but upgrades required
4. Dodd Battery -used $1.2k -Something says forget this craziness
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