Wyetech Opal Tube Rolling

Hi Guys,

Sorry for the delayed expressions of appreciation for your input. I have done a bit more homework. The tubes I am considering rolling are 4 6SN7 WGTA's in the separate control unit, not the power supply. I do not know the significance of the WGTA suffix as opposed to the myriad of other 6SN7's or whether the suffix determines the range of substitutes.

The OPAL is super fast, with huge bandwith and a tendency to the cool, highly transparent side, unusual for a tube pre. I am very happy with it as is, but would like to see if I could get a BIT more warmth and body, without losing too much of the speed and transparency. It is coupled with a Krell FPB 300cx and von Schweikert VR5 HSE's, and sometimes there is a bit too much transparency, if there is such a thing. I know there are always tradeoffs.

With that in mind, I would be willing to spend up to $100/tube and would apprecate any specific recommendations you have and what changes I would likely hear. Also, if you could suggest reliable and knowledgeable tube vendors, that would be helpful.

Many thanks from a newbie tube roller.

Neal

As stated: the WGTAs can be replaced by GTs/VT-231s/Ws without fear of mis-match. The on-line/mail-order tube vendors that I researched generally are sold out of the tubes that I've recommended, or- VERY proud of them. Upscale Audio has Ken-Rad at a reasonable price(and he tests his tubes for noise-VERY important in a pre-amp). I've had good experiences with purchasing tubes on eBay. Just stick with the sellers that have high feedback ratings, and list the test results for both sections of the tube. If you are trying to warm things up: Check with Kevin at Upscale, and see if he's got any NOS Brimars or Mullards in a 6SN7. He's got a keen ear, and can tell you what tubes will give you the sound you're trying to achieve. Did you look at the tube comparison site that I included earlier?

Thanks, Rodman. Very illuminating. And yes, I did look at the site you mentioned, which was very informative. I just find all the numbers, letters and brands somewhat dizzying.

Neal

Don't let the dizziness disuade you from pursuing a set of NOS tubes. They are well worth the effort in terms of musicality. If my goal were to warm up my system: I'd try pairing the TungSol 6SN7GT/VT-231,bottom getter, black round plate from the 40's(not the ones with the mouse ears either) with either Raytheon VT-231s or the RCA VT-231s(military tubes from the 40's) mentioned at the top of the comparison list. Like I said: I tried them. They were too warm for my tastes(or perhaps my system). You may very well find them perfect for you. Paired with the TungSols, you'll still have the benefit of the expanded/deeper soundstage, and their accuracy.