2. amps-preamps
  3. 123486-14499

Best KT88s (specifically for VAC Auricle Musiblocs)

I'm using a KT88 based amp for the first time - the VAC Auricle Musicblocs. I just had them serviced but one of the cheap Svetlanas blew, probably from my biasing it too high, and its been replaced by a used Genalex Gold Lion for the moment. The amps sound very good as it is, but I'd like to get the best out of them with a good matched Quad of something decent.

Ideally I would like a little more mid-range luxury and presence without sacrificing too much bass control. However lower bass is not so much of an issue because my speakers have powered subs with an active crossover (Vaughan Cabernet One).

I'm in the UK, and valve selection here is a bit limited. Nobody seems to have Svetlana Winged Cs anymore, and I've read reports of dubious quality in the later batches. Genelex Gold Lion are easy to get from good dealers who can match and measure, so that is the obvious choice. But would I be better of with some Chinese valves such as the Shuguang KT88-98? Are they going to be a bit warmer in sound to the Genelex?

I've read great reports about the Psvane KT88 T2 but they are very expensive. Also the Shuguang Treasures. The riskiest option is to buy these from Mable Audio in China, who have them up for a good price:

http://www.mableaudio.com/en/

From what I have read Kevin Hayes supplied the Auricles with the Shuguang KT88-98. These are very affordable, but I suspect that Kevin only supplies selected ones. 

I could also buy from the US, and I'd appreciate any recommendations for the best source.


andreweast

Showing 1 response by xti16

xti16
1,525 posts
 
If you’re considering KT90’s look for the Ei KT90 Type II. They don’t come up often but when they do they are a bargain IMO. Tough as nails with mids similar to El34’s but with more sparkly highs and tighter lows. I found the sound stage improved by getting wider.

As far as KT88’s I have the winged ’C’ SED KT88’s and they have a lot more bass than either the Ei KT 90 or Gold Lion (Russian reissue) KT88’s (which I also have). The original Gec KT88’s are very linear sounding. Extremely good and almost as good as the EAT KT88’s. But those come with a hefty window sticker.

That said I had an Octave V70se and later a V110. A lot will depend on the topology of your amp. More important IMO is the speakers. If you’re looking for a warmer sound the SED or GL KT88 is the ticket. If you’re looking for more detail and linear the Gec or EAT KT88 is the direction you want to go. Never tried any of the Svetlana or Shuguang tubes. Personally I hated the KT120's. To me they never sounded coherent like any of the tubes I have.
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