New RCA 12AX7 tubes for my Velleman...

ohbythebay

New member
Joined
Apr 11, 2013
Messages
1,381
Location
Seattle Area
So, I have many pairs of 12AX7's - Mullard's, Sylvania, GE (multiple types) and now a new set of 1958 Triple Mica Black Plate 5751's...sweet...

That's the fun part of tubes...a swap can deliver different sounds....for full detailed clarity and staging, The RCA's and the special Sylvania's take the prize. Mullard's are warm and sweet but I think they push the center vocals back a bit...

I tell you there, there is no comparison to todays tubes with the older stock...late 50's , early 60's cannot be beat...new tubes might be clear but they feel cold and sterile...like a digital tube...lol

RCA's
$(KGrHqV,!nUFH9-l,M!QBS!Y!zq0z!~~60_57.JPG


Sylvania's
Sylvania+5751WA+1950s+JHS+3-Mica+Black+Plate+Square+Getter+3+-+USA.jpg
 
Rob,

That Velleman K4040 looks like a great amp. Thanks for sharing.
 
Thank you Joe... what is that tube amp in your avatar ?

what is amazing is how tubes can have their own distinct sound and flavor. The good part is, they offer a way to truly fine tune a system. I love Mullard's and Telefunkens but the RCA's, GE's and Sylvanias present a better vocalist (forward) ...so in my system, they are preferred. In others, they could be too detailed or bright with the Mullards being the thing.

What I have found is the only way to determine your synergy is to try them.

I also have 8 types of 12AU7's which I have (inside the Velleman) as a single phase splitter. So the tube compliment from input chain to output is

1 12AU7 GE Black Plate

feeding

2 12AX7's (various types I can use)

feeding

8 GE 6L6GC's (new old stock from 1960)

No hums, no microphonics and 90wpc of tube power which is pretty awesome..
 
Hi Rob,

That's a shot from a Conrad Johnson ARTsa stereo amp from a review. I am looking forward to getting some CJ gear back in my system.

You are totally correct about the benefits of tube rolling. The feeling I get while listening to music through great tube gear is undeniable. Tubes add a little magic.
 
Back
Top