Modern EL34s VS NOS Winged C - and return policies?
A couple questions for the tube veterans here:
1. If I buy a new set of premium tubes and they sound fine but just don’t have the magic I’m after, can I usually return them?
2. What current-production EL34 comes closest to the NOS Svetlana SED Winged C?
My setup:
• Sonore ultraRendu streamer
• Gustard R26 DAC
• PrimaLuna EVO 400 preamp
• PrimaLuna EVO 300 power amp
• PureAudioProject Trio15 Classics
I’ve rolled Tung-Sol KT150s, KT120s, Gold Lion KT88s, the stock PrimaLuna tubes, and NOS Svetlana SED Winged C EL34s. The SEDs absolutely destroy the others in soundstage and holography — it’s not subtle. I often struggle to hear big differences between DACs and streamers, but the SEDs are jaw-dropping.
I’m tempted to sell off all my other tubes and double down on EL34s, but I worry a new set might not have the same magic. I’m also willing to pay for another set that does.
Any thoughts on modern EL34 alternatives or experiences dealing with tube dealers who are sympathetic to nutcases like me? Thanks!
"Items are ordered, received and used (with apparent use), then returned to us (Non-Defective Apparent Use Return), then the items will be sent back at the customer’s expense." On returns they accept, there's a restock fee:
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Cleeds I understand your sentiments and pretty much agree - however - if I drop $1,000 on tubes and am disappointed in them it would be nice to have some way to mitigate the losses. I’d rather pay a restocking fee then hope someone would buy them off me if they disappoint. Yogi looks like Tubedpot has some SEDs in stock - seem too cheap to be the real deal. I called them and spoke with someone who said if I wasn't happy with the sound I can return them. Or do I take that money and get some cool new tubes like the Ray Tubes Select or Reserve? Thanks for your responses. |
