Alternatives to Psvane KT-88's ?


 For the third retubing of my VAC Phil 300.1, I returned to the once reliable Psvane power (CV-181)  and output (KT-88) tubes. Sadly, it seems that  something has changed in their production specs. My guess is that their KT-88's now operate with higher plate voltage, making biasing a real challenge. Has anyone out here experienced similar difficulties ? What I'm listening to now is more mid-fi than the magic that had me hooked me for years. Can you suggest alternatives that can continue bring out the best of my Shindo pre-amp, Wilson Sophia 3's, and Purist cables ? I thank you for your input; the virtual beauty that used to enliven the space between, behind, above and outside my speakers is gone, leaving me with a similar vacancy.
dr-john

Showing 1 response by mid40sguy

The problem with Chinese tubes is quality, you must buy them from a trusted seller.
I find the T-ll Psvane slightly better than vintage GEC the reissue GL and Shouguang's. The reissue GL from Jim McShane are the best value and very reliable but they take 200 hours to break in. 
wrm57 I'm curious about those peered series KT88's. I also own a VAC, not to go off Dr-John's topic.