I'm using four matched sets of 1963 and 1964 7308 Amperex PQ (white label/with shield) small signal tubes and one set of 1957 Tungsol 5881's. It's by far the best sound that I've gotten out of my Bat vk5i preamp--great detail, dynamics, and bass with holographic highs. I've tried sets of the green label amperex (1976) and the orange globe (1967). The orange globe is way better than the green label. I've also tried 3 pair of new JAN Sylvania-the real stuff- not rebranded- 7308 (1977)small signal tubes that I stumbled upon in my area- (about like green amperex in pedigree). I suspect an ulterior motive, if Kevin Deal says that there's no difference between Amperex tubes. I've bought several sets of 12au7 tubes from Kevin about 5 years ago. Recently, he told me he won't even tube a Bat vk5i with Amperex tubes because of some past problem with a customer. I've had mine in my preamp for one and one half years, with no problems. Also, alot of your information is incorrect. For example, Amperex white label PQ's were made starting in 1959. The oranage around 1966. The green about 1970. I'd recommend a little more research. A good place to start is copying "Joe's tube lore" or talking to Andy @ Vintage Tube Services. Also, I turn off my preamp when it's not in use. It takes about 30 minutes to fully warm up. Leaving a tubed preamp on 24/7 will burn up the tubes in a matter of a few months. Good luck! Sincerely, Stan
Battubes....the begining
Hello,
I sure would appreciate some help with finding the right tubes for my BAT vk5i.
A lot of talk surrounds the Amperex tubes. I'm coming fast to the opinion a good bit is hype. I'd like to know the truth.... and I can't afford to do my own testing for every amperex tube out there... Yep. I read joe's tube guide online... informative.
it'll take and run with 6922's, 6dj8's, and the 7308's. . . . and I know from talking with Victor at BAT it only needs six for signal development.... the other two are shunts. "They do nothing." says Victor
Is it all as simple as put in new tubes and leave it on?
Just buy tested tubes that test strong?
Upscale audio says there is no sonic difference between any of the amperex tubes.... green, white, etc... USN, JAN, PQ.... they were just made for certain issues.... USN & JAN for the military, PQ only made in '65....and he said get a different brand which I won't mention here (just to let you know though, they are real cheap), and leave it on. Don't turn it off....
I give up.... and solid state is looking better all the time.... but I'd hate to change again as I truly love the sound this preamp can put out, if there is a solution, and I'm sure there is....
What's your experience with the vk5i and tubes...
Please help. Thanks a lot.
I sure would appreciate some help with finding the right tubes for my BAT vk5i.
A lot of talk surrounds the Amperex tubes. I'm coming fast to the opinion a good bit is hype. I'd like to know the truth.... and I can't afford to do my own testing for every amperex tube out there... Yep. I read joe's tube guide online... informative.
it'll take and run with 6922's, 6dj8's, and the 7308's. . . . and I know from talking with Victor at BAT it only needs six for signal development.... the other two are shunts. "They do nothing." says Victor
Is it all as simple as put in new tubes and leave it on?
Just buy tested tubes that test strong?
Upscale audio says there is no sonic difference between any of the amperex tubes.... green, white, etc... USN, JAN, PQ.... they were just made for certain issues.... USN & JAN for the military, PQ only made in '65....and he said get a different brand which I won't mention here (just to let you know though, they are real cheap), and leave it on. Don't turn it off....
I give up.... and solid state is looking better all the time.... but I'd hate to change again as I truly love the sound this preamp can put out, if there is a solution, and I'm sure there is....
What's your experience with the vk5i and tubes...
Please help. Thanks a lot.