2. amps-preamps
  3. 156551-143982

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
jmolsberg's avatar
jmolsberg
467 posts
 
hitachi 6sn7gtb is very good!
markusthenaimnut's avatar
markusthenaimnut
371 posts
 
So,  to the OP, what preamp did you end up getting?
dentdog's avatar
dentdog
498 posts
 
Maybe I should run my WE6SN7s for a while to see if the bottom end comes around. So far the Pavane CV181s bests those for good bass, mid bass. 
chorus OP
976 posts
 
I ended up recently selling my XA 25 and replacing it with the INT25
which is en route to me as I write. 
After much consideration I felt the same maker match was the 
most prudent way to go.
Of course I lost an avenue to tube sound.
I do also want a DAC upgrade from my Oppo 205
so I hope to land an R2R Day with a tube or two inside.

Thanks to everyone who provided their experiences.

markusthenaimnut's avatar
markusthenaimnut
371 posts
 
There are a lot of good R2R DACs out there these days. I'm really enjoying my MHDT Orchid. There's a lot that's been written about the R2R NOS DACs in the last couple years and good options out there that don't cost a ton. 
More to discover