EL34 Lovers?

The amp I am considering is a Music Reference RM9SE, which I auditioned yesterday at the house of an audiophile that happens to own the same preamp (Joule), speakers (Merlin)and cabling (Cardas) as I do and I thought it was outstanding. So along with my Ars Sonum (both are EL34 based) I think this tube is a real good match with my speakers. I don't think more than 30-50 watts are need to drive the Merlins as loud as I would ever want or could take. I think that VAC has also designed some good amps with the EL34 which I want might to try.

Pubul I'm driving my Merlins mxe's also with the El-34's through my Lectron JH 50. I think Like you it's a great match. I havn't had many amps behind the Merlin's but the EL-34 is by far the best performer. I'd love to hear the performance of the ARS someday to get another reference with these wonderful tubes. I'm also using the JJ tesla's. I think they provide a great neutral sound allowing the equipment to move out of the way. I haven't had any desire to try NOS tubes yet.

I'd be interested in what you come up with if you do some tube rolling.

Regards

If I try tube rolling, it will proabably be some Siemens tested by Roger Modjeski at RAM Labs/Music Reference. Incidentally, I get the sense that the EL34 tubes are Roger and Bobby's favourite tubes; Merlin owners could do worse.

I don't understand the reluctance to roll some NOS American or German EL-34's in these amps aside from cost.

I think that you will be very surprised and how much difference there is between tubes.

Entrope, can you recommend some. I'm not too knowledgable in the tube realm and would enjoy hearing some recommendations that you like.

Cheers