Vintage HiFi Audio Forum

Audio Discussion => TUBES TUBES TUBES => Topic started by: Turtle on July 19, 2010, 04:42:06 PM

Title: Preamp tube experiments
Post by: Turtle on July 19, 2010, 04:42:06 PM

I am currently using the stock Sovtek 6922 tubes (6 in total) in my SF Line 1 preamp.  I have heard that changing the tubes can have a significant impact on sound quality and characteristics.  Tom has mentioned that he has a lot of tubes in stock, but I was curious as to whether tube brands have specific sonic characteristics, e.g. Sovtek vs Siemens vs Amperex.  Any suggestions, experiences, or comments are welcomed.

Title: Re: Preamp tube experiments
Post by: OCCD on July 19, 2010, 06:00:15 PM

Try them all!!! ;D

Title: Re: Preamp tube experiments
Post by: Kingman on July 19, 2010, 07:47:14 PM

As Bob would say..." Why don't we try it???"

Title: Re: Preamp tube experiments
Post by: Turtle on July 19, 2010, 08:22:04 PM

I would love to randomly try tubes, but they can run from pretty cheap ($15 each) to quite expensive (telefunken tubes are $140 each).  Before I shell out that kind of money I would like to know what sonic characteristics a particular brand might impart.  The Sovtek tubes are very neutral and do not add any of the lushness that tubes are known for.  The preamp is incredibly quiet and sounds more solid state than tube.  This isn't bad, I just want to explore some other options.

Title: Re: Preamp tube experiments
Post by: bmwr75 on July 21, 2010, 03:28:15 PM

6922 = 6DJ8 right?  If yes, I got some Amperex Bugle Boy 6DJ8s I'll make you a deal on.  Send me a private message if you are interested.

Title: Re: Preamp tube experiments
Post by: F1nut on July 22, 2010, 02:13:18 AM

Brendan usually gives a pretty good description of a certain tube's flavor.

https://www.tubeworld.com/index_high.htm (https://www.tubeworld.com/index_high.htm)

Title: Re: Preamp tube experiments
Post by: angelod307 on October 28, 2010, 08:39:22 AM

just curious, i have a sfl-1 and i only have a single tube in it. i wonder why there is such a diferent approach in your preamp. when we were talking at carverfest with bob himself, he said it only takes one tube for the given effect of the tube sound. and thus far, i totally agree. please post what your finding are as you try different types.