Solid state or Tubes preamp phono stage.

It’s semantics, but tube data sheets show 0.35 A heater current (parallel) for 5814, versus 0.30 A for 12AU7. They’re close enough it will never cause a problem for gear. 12BH7 is another matter. Its heater draws 0.6 A, so that will work in some components but not others. I find 12BH7 generally sounds better than 12AU7. But when you don’t have the PSU overhead for its heaters, I do like the 5814 sub. GE triple mica gray plate "5 star" 5814A are nice, but on the warm side. 

EDIT: Oops, I thought someone had mentioned 12BH7 here. Must’ve been another thread. Anyways, check heater current and pin compatibility on any 12AU7 subs. 6189 is another that’s definitely fine in all circumstances. 5963 too (RCA black plates are nice).

@mulveling

It’s semantics, but tube data sheets show 0.35 A heater current (parallel) for 5814, versus 0.30 A for 12AU7. They’re close enough it will never cause a problem for gear.

Yep, which is why I was willing to try the CBS Hytron’s. I am quite impressed with them for the $$. Really opened-up the Trumpet throughout the mids and highs, more ‘air’ was immediately noticed compared to the Brimar’s. And, with the Tele’s really changed the overall Trumpet presentation. Maybe too much of a good thing. I’m actually toying with the idea of getting 2 Mullards to pair with my 2 Telefunken’s. For some reason, I’m thinking that may be an interesting combo. I put in 2 of the stock Mullards, and think older Mullard’s just may work.

Fun with tubes.

Good to hear you still have your Trumpet. It was your glowing reviews that pushed me in the Trumpets direction.

Greetings 

I’m fortunate to have both types of phono preamps in my system. One tube and two SS.

I enjoy both of them and listen to both daily. I lean more towards the tube phono preamp. There is always a plus and minus to both forms.

P‘If you can get both types. Or as the years go by  you might eventually have both types in your system.

‘Enjoy your music no matter what kind of system you have.

Joe Nies

 

I have only ever owned one phono stage. I thought about the Trumpet, but ended up with an Icon Audio PS1 Mkii. I am curious how they compare and if I am hearing what folks are calling that "classic" sound. Anyone more experienced who has heard both and can share their impressions?

The problem with tube phono stages or any tube equipment is the tubes. There is significant variability in even the same brand so unless the tubes are being tested you have no idea what you are going to get. Tubes self destruct eventually and you never know when they are going to do it. People get psychotic with tube rolling. Tubes are a PITA. Do they ever sound better? On rare occasions yes, in most no and this is coming from a guy who has lived with a tube phono stage for 30 years. I also just bought $46,000 tube amps and there are 20 output tubes in each amp, a glutton for punishment for sure and I am very apprehensive about it. Many people have the opinion these amps are the best at driving my speakers. I certainly hope this is true because I know for a fact JC1+s do a fabulous job and they are 1/2 the price.