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How the hell do you select a tube?

I was using some Vintage Tungsram tubes on my PS Audio BHK 300 Amps.They need to be replaced, but those vintage Tungsrams are no longer available.  The Tungsrams sounded noticeably better than the Gold Lion tubes that came with the amps, so I understand that the tubes will make a difference.

I am hoping I can get some good recommendations here... I understand my ear, my room, the kind of music I play etc etc are unique.  But for various reasons I don't have time to experiment and mess around with different possibilities.  So I am hoping I can benefit from someone's experience/opinions.   So what are using?   I am not super price conscious.  

The amps are driving Dynaudio Contour 60 speakers.  I have PS Audio DirectStream DAC.   It's a nice system but I got some help putting it together, I am more or less a dweeb about all this stuff.
schneider21
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
6922 valve? Amperex, Volvo, RCAs, Blue tip Tesla, all would be better than the the new reissue GL. GL is either 10% or 5%, you can get a better valve in GL, BUT Amperex/Volvo, or Amperex/RCA, Tesla Blue tip matched, very hard to beat..

Regards


jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
by calling / writing ps audio, or reputable tube seller like upscale audio and asking their advice
schneider21 OP
2 posts
 
I did, the guy I spoke to said they'd rather not advise on this... I think he said it's too personal, too subjective.
tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,582 posts
 
Check with Vintage Tube Service, Brent Jessee, or Jim McShane.  If you call them have some idea of what change to your current sound you'd like to hear with new tubes.
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