i own a mapletree preamp. it's a modern tube design. i have tried different 6sn7 tubes, as well. it favors truth, rather than beauty. it definitely is not warm, unless you ask lloyd to include a treble attenuator, which is part of my design.
i doubt you will find any preamp in production which has the classic tube sound. such a presentation is what most manufacturers are trying to avoid. i have auditioned many tube preamps, as i am a reviewer. i have also attended many ces shows.
the sound you are describing can be obtained by carefully selecting an older preamp, probably ventage 1980's or 1970's. i suggest that you listen for yourself and come to your own conclusions. i find the mapletree, a bit analytical, and i have owned it for over 2 years.
perhaps you want tio buy mine. let me know.
i doubt you will find any preamp in production which has the classic tube sound. such a presentation is what most manufacturers are trying to avoid. i have auditioned many tube preamps, as i am a reviewer. i have also attended many ces shows.
the sound you are describing can be obtained by carefully selecting an older preamp, probably ventage 1980's or 1970's. i suggest that you listen for yourself and come to your own conclusions. i find the mapletree, a bit analytical, and i have owned it for over 2 years.
perhaps you want tio buy mine. let me know.