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  3. 1136760481

Who else prefers 5751s and why?

I recently acquired a matched pair of 5751s to try because of all ofthe buzz about these tubes. They are the modest GE brand no black plates etc and I paid a fairly low amount for what truly appear to be NOS about $20 per tube. I immediately rolled the tubes in my tube integrated and was stunned by the improvement in sound, The tubes they replaced were real Telefunkens BTW, I have used Mullards and an assortment of other highly regarded tubes. None had the transparency, detail, both macro and microdynamics these have. The soundstage was also noticebley better even the speed of the amp seemed to improve. Has anyone else had this experience?
mechans
jhendrixfan
40 posts
 
There is good reason that you prefer the 5751s over a regular 12AX7. The 5751 was designed, primarily by RCA, as a low noise, lower gain tube than the 12AX7. It also has other characteristics that make it a little bit different than the 12AX7 (look at the curves).

One of the best versions is the Sylvania GOLD BRAND type. They are now become quite pricey as folks start to use them as substitutes for 12AX7s where gain is not too demanding and reduced noise floor is more important.
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
i have a ge 5751 black plate, which i use in an audionote cd player. it's my favorite tube, for reasons opposite to those stated above, namely it significantly rolls off the treble, adds a touch of veiling and takes the edge off most poorly recorded discs.

another great tube is a ge 5814 black plate. i have often substituted this tube for a 12ax7 in preamps or cd players.

you might also consider a 12ay7 as well.
muralman1
1,527 posts
 
I haven't owned the GE black plate. The Sylvania black plate has the least roll off. and is the clearest sounding of any miniature tube I have used.
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