Cube Audio Nenuphar Single Driver Speaker (10 inch) TQWT Enclosure

Hi Charles,

That is a good question and one that begs the premise of my post: that the L2i-se has uncanny neutrality since but has a DHT tube pre and what tube is truly neutral?  But to answer your question, I first what to point out that there is scripture on this subject written by Srajan in his review of the VR Signature L2 se pre amp where he thoroughly compares various tubes in DHT mode.  From reading this, the tube I would want to try is a vintage WE 300b--which I think was Srajan's overall preference followed closely by the WE VT52, the Elrog 300b and the EH 50.   Since a pair of WE 300b's go for about the price of the component, I would like to try the WE VT52 and the EH 50 which Srajan said had an "hallucinate" sound stage.  I want to know what that means.  I like big sound stages.  Vinnie's favorite tube is the Takatsuki 300b.

Magico at first listen lacks tonal richness on say a piano. But have to listen more.

Listen again, its lack of coloration, something you don’t hear very often. Once you get it, there is no going back.

Stephen,
I used the Takatsuki 300b in my amplifier for 3 or 4 years and it is superb!
I never bothered with the W,E. Vintage 300b as they were astronomical in price (Takatsuki and Elrog were as far as I was willing to spend ,1800.00 pair range at that time). I did try a pair of W.E. re-issue circa 1990s vintage but was disappointed with them.

I’ve heard various Magico speakers in their Q and S series  (Most experience with the S5). Just my own 2 cents worth, I’d be surprised if the Magico A3 were more ’neutral ’ or more importantly ’natural ’ than the Nenuphar. This is based on nothing more than a personal hunch just  to be clear. I’d relish the opportunity to heard them in a direct comparison. They are by design so remarkably different objectively and really philosophically. Oh would that be a highly interesting listening session.

Charles

@charles1dad Are you using the EMLs these days?

Cal,
Yes all things considered the EML XLS 300b has the best combination of sound quality and great durability and reliability. A  true workhorse tube.
Charles