New KT150 tubes?

I just started a new thread where I report on ARC's new G series. I have a URL x-ref to where you can see pics and prices.

It's a new "higher-end" series which is priced higher than the "normal" Reference product equivalent analogues; namely: the Ref 5 SE and Ref 150. There's also an integrated version of the Ref 75. The G series is really gorgeous and uses the new KT-150 power tube.

Looking forward to reading and learning more about the G series.

I believe the pic on the web site is the G integrated amplifier.

Here's some pics:

www DOT theaudiobeat.com/highend2014/highend2014_arc.htm

Gary, TAB says the new models "are 'reimagined' versions of current models." Do you know yet if the G series incorporates new or improved technology, other than the KT-150 tubes.

Just speculating of course, but if the G series is essentially repackaged existing products, the use of KT-150 tubes may permit one or both inferences (or surmises) that (1) the existing product line can handle the tubes and (2) that ARC completed "life testing."

I have no idea.. I will have more info after next weekend after the hi-fi show in Newport.

Gary, my non-tech instinct (surmise) is that the KT-150 should be a drop in option for ARC's current Ref series amps (75, 150, 250 and 750). I base this conjecture on the following facts: (1) the KT-150 plate draw is just a few milli-amps more than the KT-120; and (2) the KT-150 plate impedance is very close to the KT-120.

In the former case, I would be surprised to learn that the current Ref amps already beefed up power tranny couldn't handle the slight power draw increase. In the second case, if the KT-120 and 150 tube impedances are in the same neighborhood, I would think that the output tranny should do a good job with impedance matching.

If my recollection of the facts is correct, I am puzzled why the KT-150 isn't a non-brainer tube rolling option. I'll double check the KT-120 and 150 specs and report back if my recollection is faulty.

I wonder if ARC's reluctance to "sprinkle holy water" on the KT-150 has anything to do with the pending 2014 introduction of the new G series gear, which apparently will use the KT-150. Well .... as I have written before, I trust ARC and will not drop in the KT-150s until ARC blesses the new tube. I have too much invested in my gear to impulsively drop a component into my Ref 150 until ARC says its ok.