2. amps-preamps
  3. 179894-21

Best 12AU7 Type Tubes for a Preamp

I am hoping for some help finding good quality and good sounding 12AU7 variant tubes for a preamp – I need two tubes. A price of around $100 each or less would be great but I would pay a bit more (150 ea.) for something that is likely to sound better. The unit came with JAN PHILIPS ECC82 (12AU7/5963) and I also own a pair of reissue/new Mullard ECC92 tubes. Both sets are quiet but I am wondering if there is something even better sounding at a moderate price.

Readily available NOS options I have seen include:

  • NOS RCA Blackplate or Clear Top at about $100-150 EA.
  • Amprex 7316/ECC186 at around $150 each, and
  • Mullard CV4003/12AU7 $150ea.

New options I have found (in addition to Mullard) include (among others):

  • Genalex - Gold Lion B749 / ECC82/12AU7, $70 ea.
  • Psvane 12AU7-S Art Series ECC82, $55 ea.

Thanks for any help.

mitch2
bubba_buoy
47 posts
 

Mazda/Radiotechnique from France are really good. Great detail without being bright, and a very nice amount of tubey-ness and dimensionality. Bugle Boys too. 

Otherwise I think the current version of the Gold Lions is really good. I think they are easily the best of current production.

cey's avatar
cey
275 posts
 

well, cleartops are $60 or less a matched pair... not considered the best but just about appreciated.

 

if the circuit can handle it 12BH7 is the preferred alternative to the 12AU7

mglik
908 posts
 

I believe the best and most reliable are Mil Soec Mullards,

Rare and expensive, You will need to find a hoarder.

Mine were in the box wrapped in paper. They are all tested in an active unit before being wrapped.

lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 

if the circuit can handle it 12BH7 is the preferred alternative to the 12AU7

5963 (industrial) and 5814A & 6189 (military) are drop-in replacements for 12AU7/ ECC82. 

Ag insider logo xs@2x
samzx12
1,220 posts
 

I prefer Brimars. Gorgeous midrange and a little more sparkle up top than Mullards. 

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