Does EAR324 phono stage sound like tubes ?

"Grainy" is always a sign of poor synergy which represents somehow something wrong in the system. This could be too much transistors in the chain, or a wrong choice of speakers and cables, etc.

With OTL amps and Quad ESL, I truly believe 324 should deliver a bit more transparent, extended presentation than a Linn Linto.

To lower the risk(i.e. uncertainty), Lewm may buy a used one.

VBR
Dan

Typo: ...OTL ampa and ESL speakers(Not Quad ESL).

That's OK, Dan. I take your point. Mine are Sound Lab M1s, but I love Quads, too.

Hello again Dan,

What tubes (combo) are you using with your 88PB ?
Does all 4 tubes have to be the same brand ?
Would be interested what tube combo you find "best" with the 88pb.

Thanks.

Nolitan, here's they are:
V1, V2 & V4: NOS Telefunken PCC88 <> bottoms
V3: NOS Siemens PCC88 (branded Telefunken)

I handpicked from my collections and matched them closely by myself. The sonic improvements over stock tubes are stunningly great!