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
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
You can't assume one tube brand will have less noise than another, each tube must be individually tested.

Gochurchgo: noise testing is a must on any tube you order, especially since it's been established that your system gain is high.

I believe tubes from Upscale include testing for noise and microphonics. As far as "Kevin's Stash," I'd like to hear your impression of these tubes. His Platinum rated tubes have a triode balance of
10% or tighter, I wonder if the "Stash" will make an audible difference.



jackd
1,074 posts
 
@gochurchgo 

No experience with EJ's phono stage just the preamp which I still have around and a pair of amps from about five years ago.
vegasears
1,173 posts
 
I had used and loved NOS tubes. After a couple costly quick failures, I've never purchased NOS again. These day I only use Upscale and for the most part Gold Lion reissues and from time to time Mullard reissues. I have a gallon zip lock baggie full of NOS and reissues tubes just to keep me on path.
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
nos small signal tubes are fine - they can sound excellent and are still worth it even at current prices, if your gear doesn't run them too close to the edge

playing with nos power tubes at current prices is not smart unless you truly have money to burn

otoh, i have gaggles of true uk gec kt77’s mullard el34’s hoarded from the 1980’s... they are fun to listen to and sound wonderful!
gochurchgo OP
923 posts
 
Called quicksilver and no one answered. Left message again. The replacement tube from Brent Jessee showed up though so we are back in business. Interestingly enough, the slight gain reduction from the Sys is as good on the RCA’s as it was in the Philips. So it’s a momentary fix. The Millard will be here Friday so that will be fun. I have a few preorders that finally showed up after months of delay. 
More to discover