12AT7 / 12AU7


Which brands are known for having more of a syrupy/airy/atmospheric sound?

shtinkydog

I have a vintage re-capped Conrad-Johnson PV 11 preamp along with a Benchmark AB2 Amplifier.

I just ordered a matched pair of AU7’s from Brent Jesse for $250 a few minutes ago .

The Telefunken 12AU7's / ECC82's are going to be a little more, errr, analytical than the Amperexes.  Installed in an older C-J preamp, I can see a good balance being achieved.  Less so in a modern preamp that is less warm.

With all due respect, in my head to head comparison with the Telefunken and Amperex, the Telefunken was sweeter. YMMD.

YMMD

Mine definitely does. Telefunken 12AU7s sound drab in my BHK preamp while Amperex 7316s sparkle.  It just confirms that there are no absolutes in audio.