Octave Audio integrated amplifiers

Rabnani - I don't think you would be able to choose which tubes come with the unit other than EL34 6550 or KT88 for outputs. When I got the V70SE it came with SED EL34 or the SED 6550 or SED KT88. Since they are not made any more I would be only guessing what manufacturer Andreas can get today. I think the input 12ax7 is the Sovtek 12ax7lps and the drivers are Tung Sol 12at7 re-issues. At least that is what both my V70SE and V110 came with.

As far as trying different tubes it is best just to buy and try them for yourself. My personal favorite tubes haven't been made since 1959 (Tung Sol 6550 solid black plate for outputs). Now as you change input and drivers the sound of the outputs will change too and you just have to find the right combo that suits your personal preference. So far I have 10 different output tubes - 9 different drivers and 10 different inputs. That is an awful lot of combinations.

Xti16, One more clarfications before decide the purchase. What will be diff b/w KT88 and KT120? Only the power diff. or character? I am plan to purchase v-70se. So, I can ask to fix the tubes at factory itself. Tks

With the V70SE there will be no increase in power using the KT120's. But you will be able to push them a little harder than most other tubes. As far as the sound difference the KT88 will be a warmer sound and the KT120 will be more forward in the mids and highs with a little more punch in the bass. That being said I don't know which KT88's Octave is using today. My V70SE had SED KT88's when I got it almost 3 years ago.

Black box or SBB for Octave v110 powering focus 260 speakers?

To all participants of this discussion. (If you are still here :). I switched to Octave V70 SE from a very good solid state integrated and I wish Octave had the same deep and punchy bass! I feel lack of bass especially when I listen to vinyl. I have Linn Sondek LP 12 with Adikt MM cartridge. While V70 ES has outstandingly detailed and crisp highes and great mids, bottom part needs more weight IMO. My question: does V70 needs more burn in time to show all it's force or may be Black Box can fix it? Or solution in subwoofer?