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Balanced Audio Technology MK-30 tubes. Alternative to Sovtek 6922

I just picked up a MK-30, that had been checked out at BAT in 2017 with a clean bill of health. Receipt says "clean and clear".

But on my efficient Tekton Moabs, the tube noise is very audible at the listening position. So much so, I can not use this preamp. I am debating on just reselling it, or trying new tubes to see if the noise goes away or at least down. The Sovtek 6922s are now hard to find from any reputable source, what is a good alternative. I don't need the best fanciest NOS tubes, just a good solid performer.

Any suggestions?
128x128brad1138
tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,597 posts
 
Tubes are graded better when they are lower noise and more closely matched. It sounds like you only need lower noise.

I would call Kevin, Brent Jessee and Jim McShane and explain your problem. I think any of those three will be honest about whether they have tubes that will solve your problem, within your budget.  If they don't, sell the preamp.
blindjim
3,092 posts
 

First off I’d give BAT support a call. I’ve had several BAT amps. all are balanced and spurrious noises are routinely absent. I rolled tubes in an older vk5 pre and in a vk60. noise was never a consideration while interjecting different tubes. consequently I feel the issue is elsewhere…. more than likely.

however the tube replacement options are immense. 6DJ8, 6922, OR 7308 ARE PLUG AND PLAY REPLACEMENTS.

to verify the issue is in fact tube related merely buy any actually ‘new’ ones regardless brand and plug ‘em in. I should think BAT offers something here too, but finding something kshould not be difficult.

BAT amps are all self biasing so even if the what ever tubes are not new for example, things ought to reveal if a tube issue or not.

and I’d call BAT about this anyhow. hopefully it is merely a poor tube.

the flip side of the coin does seem to obligate the seller to explain their notice of ‘clean and clear’ IMO. Very good luck to you..
jond's avatar
jond
5,845 posts
 
I will say on the subject of Gold Lion 6922's I retubed my preamp with them and found them to be too bright. I love the Gold Lion KT77 but with the 6922's I ended up taking one pair out.  My preamp uses 6 tubes, I rolled in a pair of Matsushita 7dj8's in first position and ran with that and 4 Gold Lions and it was perfect. As always YMMV.
brad1138's avatar
brad1138 OP
72 posts
 
@rlb61  you are correct my bad. VK-30
brad1138's avatar
brad1138 OP
72 posts
 
Thanks @jond 

I have decided to gamble and order new tubes, and hope that fixes it. And I might as well get tubes I want to keep. I'll probably go with the Gold Lions "kevins stash" and cryo. If they are too bright, I will follow your suggestion.

But "too bright" may be fine for my aging ears...  :)

Also, I have an email in to BAT, waiting to hear back. I may just call them tomorrow.
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