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KT-88/ 90 choices to replace my new stock tubes

I am trying to decide on one of these tube types for a new pais of quicksilver V4 amps I just bought. The stock tubes sound good, but I feel they can be improved upon. My frontrunner is the JJ tesla KT 88 ( around $75 a pair) , having had good results with this tube previously with another amp. I am also considering the EI KT-90 , which I heard was quite good with the exception of the newest ones( mark 3 perhaps). I am open minded and the JJ tesla price range is fine, but I dont want to spend too much over their asking price.Thanks in advance.

fjn04
jeffreybehr's avatar
jeffreybehr
805 posts
 
The Penta/Shuguang closed-plate KT88SC @ $29 is still getting raves from users on the Tube Asylum. Mine sure sound good.

http://www.pentalaboratories.com/product.asp?dept%5Fid=5020&pf%5Fid=KT88SC+SHUGUANG

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fjn04 OP
1,561 posts
 
Thanks for your suggestions, isnt the factory tube in the quicksilver V4 pronounced Shuguang as well. Is this penta one also a chinese tube, and if so would it most likely be superior than the stock (shuguang-I think) KT-88 in the quickies. Where can I find this penta shuguang closed plate KT-88 SC, and I wonder how it would compare to say the KT-90. I know the KT-90 is said to increase the power in the V4, but will they retain the lush and textured midrange of the KT-88.
uppermidfi
277 posts
 
I had 6550s in my integrated amp when I bought it, but replaced them right away with EH KT88s. The sound was much fuller and in my opinion more enjoyable. FWIW
jburidan
803 posts
 
I second Jeff's recommendation. The Penta Shuggie's are fabulous. Just be sure to request solid plates without holes.
shiva
181 posts
 
I have had the EH KT88's and was not impressed. I think the Chinese made Valve Arts that I use sound great though.
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