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PrimaLuna Prologue 5 and tube upgrades

Coming from the pro audio world and sitting most of my career in front of extremely flat loudspeakers in acoustically treated rooms, I'm a bit concerned that my brand new Prima Luna Prologue 5 tube amp is quite rolled off from 10k on upward.
I'm sure most would call this "warm" and the typical tube sound, but I would just call this in need of a pink noise generator and a eq adjustment. I am in love with the 3D dimensionality and the incredible soundstage from this amp, but am left craving the pings of cymbals and the air of vocals on playback.
So far, I've only just replaced the 12ax7's with some 70's phillips that I had around. It helped just a small bit with the extention of the highs. Should I chase this down with some great Telefunkens etc? or go back to a solid state amp? Yes, I'm calling Kevin from Upscale later today!
jmacinnis
wolf_garcia
6,708 posts
 
I also come from the land of Pro Audio and felt the same way about my Jolida 502p until it broke in a bit and I messed around with various tube options. Now I wonder what the hell I was thinking as it has sparkle galore. Also, this might be the first time I've used the word "galore."
wescoman
117 posts
 
Another option is Andy Bowman at Vintage Tube Services. Tell him what you're trying to accomplish and he'll give you some good advice (and excellent NOS tubes).
http://vintagetubeservices.com/
bradf's avatar
bradf
329 posts
 
The below combination works well for me/my stereo

PL3 Tubes = 12AX7 Telefunken Black Smooth Plates, 12AU7 = Radiotechnique, 5R4GYS = Philips

PL5 Tubes = KT88 Gold Lion (May try Psvane), 12AX7 = Bugleboy, 12AU7 = Radiotechnique

PL8 Tubes = 12AX7 Telefunken Black Smooth Plates, 12AU7 = Radiotechnique, 5R4GYS = Philips

I use Crystal Cable solid silver 999.999 Speaker Wire, RS Audio and MAC Paladium IC's.

REL 305 Sub, Triangle 30th Anniversary Antal Speakers, Townsend Super Tweaters.

I have not gone down this path myself, but from what I am reading, upgraded fuses add to the realism.

I have used Mullards, Tungsgram, and a couple others.What I have outlined above is what works best so farand results in a very realalistic upper end regardless of instruument. I have read good reviews regarding the new production Psvane Treasures, both 12AX7, and 12AU7

You may want to mention what speakers you are driving, some fellow Audio Goners may have xperience with the combo.

Brad

Hope This Helps.




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