Cary SLP-98L tube question


Hi, all.

Here's my question:  What is a buffer cathode follower, and where are these tubes located (front by control or toward the back)?
What is a line stage, and where are these tubes located (front or back)?

And lastly, where should better quality tubes go if I only have two upgraded tubes to use?

Thanks, and stay safe.
audiodwebe

Showing 1 response by jasonbourne52

"In the cathode follower you use the voltage swing across a resistor between ground and the cathode. This voltage swing will be roughly the same as the grid, but the current swing will be greater."  This gives a low impedance drive for the output (last) stage of a preamp. The two back tubes are likely cathode followers. No need to put upgraded tubes there! Use new tubes in the first (voltage gain) position.