2. amps-preamps
  3. 168085-108796

BEL E88CC/6922 tubes - what can I expect?

Lately I've been tube rolling 6922s in the gain stage of my Sonic Frontiers Line 1 preamp, and considering trying the BEL E88CC/6922 from Upscale Audio.  Since Upscale doesn't provide explicit recommendations on tubes and these aren't available other places, I wanted to see if anyone has opinions on these, or maybe there are other tubes I should try?  So far have tried 
-  Svetlana (came with preamp) and these were dull, lifeless.
- Electro Harmonix gold pin - ok but kinda boring compared to others.  Currently using these in input position.
- Amperex white label - fun but a little too tubey.
- Matsushita - I really like these but also a bit too much tubiness over time.
- Mullard - favorite so far, just sound right.
- GE "smokies" - still evaluating.
FOMO is creeping in as it looks like Upscale's inventory is dwindling.  Any opinions?  Other tubes I should try?

System - Thiel 2.3s, Krell KAV amp, SF L1 pre, bel canto 3.7VB DAC, decent room treatments, always think the higher end could get better if less sibilance/reediness.

Thanks!
thosb

Showing 1 response by oldhvymec

oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
Is Telefunken on your radar OP.. Tough to beat that valve.. I've used E88C/6922 ECC82/12AU7 and ECC83/12AT7. 

Every valve preamp or power amp I've ever used with any of those valves always sounded wonderful. There are a LOT of Tellies branded under other names.. A little research pays big dividends.

Same with Mullard, there are a LOT of other names branded on the valve, but they are 100% Mullard. Amperex for one.

Volvo, Mazda, Hammond, Siemens

Golden Lyon? Serious fan base, good valve for the most part.. The way you're describe valves, GL would be LESS tubey more like a Mullard the way YOUR describing, But Amperex is tubey and it's a Mullard?

There a FEW variance within a brand.. Mullard BIG time..

I mean you are "Rollin on the River"...Might as well run the entire gauntlet.

Have fun
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