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6SN7 driver tubes

I need to replace a few 6SN7 drivers in my amps. They take 3 per side. I've been using Sylvania 6SN7GTB which sound great, but they're pricey to find reliable ones. I've been considering EH or Chinese brown base. Any thoughts on these? Or any other recommendations? I want to keep the cost under $20 per tube.
mingles
jdec
123 posts
 
Tvad, how would describe the sound of the Russian 6H8C?
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dgarretson
2,599 posts
 
Ditto recommendation of Tung Sol 6SN7 reissue. They get pretty close to the good characteristics of NOS Russian 1578.
mjcmt's avatar
mjcmt
710 posts
 
I have always used EH 6SN7 tubesin all my Cary amps and preamps w/ excellent results for not much doe. They are nicely balance and great frequency extension. They last a really long time, as I've never had one go bad. They do take a long time to break in before they really sound fluid.
mjcmt's avatar
mjcmt
710 posts
 
I just looked at your system and see you are using the DJH preamp. I had that premp and the Chinese tubes Cary used sound really musical, smooth, and big (but with a diffused soundstage). The EH in the place of the Chinese had much better detail and frequency extension. They will sound a bit harsh until they break in.

With this preamp you never have to, or never should turn it off. It will sound better and the tubes last forever in it. This is Cary's recommendation, not my own, and my experience confirms this.
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