2. amps-preamps
  3. 161387-96791

Constant noisy tubes maybe go solid state?

I have a Quicksilver Line Stage Preamp (12AT7) mated to an Odyssey Khartago Stereo. Overall I like it. Way too much gain but I digress. Weeks after receiving it I rolled in a few different tubes, kinda fun to color the sound signature. I liked rhe RXA black plates I got and those stuck around for more than a year. They started going microphonic and making noises so I ordered another pair (noisy) then another different vendor (blasts of white noise) and another set that arrived today (one is noisy as holy hell and one seems fine).

So where does one order preamp quality tunes that are quiet? Is there something I’m not requesting when ordering? Maybe dump
snd go solid state? I’m trying to be humorous because I’m pissed. Ha.
gochurchgo
roxy54's avatar
roxy54
7,764 posts
 
Vintage Tube Services. You won't waste your time or money.
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
the odyssey’s are very high input sensitivity -- makes for the need for super quiet tubes if feeding it with a tube pre (or tubes that wouldn’t sound noisy with another amp seem noisy going into it) - klaus’s amps are very nice sounding but they are certainly finicky for a solid state unit
helomech
1,526 posts
 
Try the Mullard 12AT7s from Upscale Audio, the gold pin versions. Otherwise call Vintage Tube Services, just be prepared to wait a good couple weeks to receive your tubes. 
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,551 posts
 
The JJs have a little glare that's a touch unrefined. If you like a warmer sound, look at Mullard CV4024. More neutral Psvane 12AT7. 
rodman99999
6,033 posts
 
Q) "So where does one order preamp quality tunes that are quiet?    Is there something I’m not requesting when ordering?"      A) Some tube mongers test their wares for noise (some don’t) and- typically, you must request the best, of those that do.     At Upscale; they’re graded.     Ask for their, "Platinum" or, "Kevins’ Stash" rated, for the quietest.    ie:  https://upscaleaudio.com/pages/test-equipment     and:  https://upscaleaudio.com/pages/grading-matching      Brent Jessee Recording is another excellent source, for noise-tested valves.    His method is outlined, on this page (second vid):  http://www.audiotubes.com/12ax7.htm
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