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Seeking a Warm 12AX7 Tube for Preamp

Hi All-

 

I got hold of a newer tube preamp. I bought some match ed JJ 12AX7 tubed and after they burned in for a bit, they sound very strident and bright. Can anyone recommend  a tube brand that will be warmer in the upper mid and high frequencies? I can't afford NOS. I'd like to keep it under $100 for the pair matched. Viva Tubes has the new Mullard reissues, PSVane Art Series, Electro Harmonix Gold Pins, and Tung Sol Gold Pins in their new stock that are matched. Any suggestions?

 

Thanks 

spacecadet65
curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim
5,171 posts
 

Stay away from PSVANE. Look for the new Mullards or the Genalex, Gold Lion. They’re about $106 a pair on Amazon, don’t know how much on Brent Jesse.

frogman
7,501 posts
 

If you’re not opposed to NOS, or used that measure well, try the Raytheon 7025.  A low(er) noise 12AX7 that I have found to generally produce a full sound that is on the warm side.  And they can be found for very reasonable prices. 

frogman
7,501 posts
 

If you’re not opposed to NOS, or used that measure well, try the Raytheon 7025.  A low(er) noise 12AX7 that I have found to generally produce a full sound that is on the warm side.  And they can be found for very reasonable prices. 

fertguy's avatar
fertguy
316 posts
 

Find vintage Telefunken.  Pricey but None better I think.

https://www.audiotubes.com/12ax7.htm

inagroove
172 posts
 

@ spacecadet65

@ knotscott

 

Which JJ 12AX7 did you purchase?   The ECC83-S or the ECC803-S? 

I have use BOTH and found the 83S more balanced (warmer) than the 803S (analytical) on my Zesto Phono-Pre.

I spoke with the designer, George, who compared the 83S to many, many other tubes- including expensive NOS tubes, and sonically the 83S won (with a bonus - they are cheap $33 - Tube Type: 12AX7 Types (thetubestore.com)).  

In the future I may roll tubes, but I will never be without the 83S... not harsh in the slightest.

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