Cary SLP98 Tube Question


I picked up a Cary slp98 a month or so ago.. Its my first experience with tubes, and overall I'm quite pleased with how it sounds.

It does seem to have a tendency toward sibilance though. If its present in a recording to any degree, the 98 really lets you know about it. In all the reviews etc that I've read on the slp98, I dont recall anyone mentioning this.

I had hoped that this would improve with use, but it does not seem to be the case. Its got well over a hundred hours on it now with no real change.

I'm wondering if this sibilance might be related to the stock China 6sn7 tubes. Before I invest in a set of nos tubes, I'd like to get comments from others with more tube knowledge than myself. Would replacing the tubes likely make an improvement in this area?

I'd appreciate any comments from slp98 owners past or present.

Regards,
Greg
slowdive_1

Showing 2 responses by mechans

A good tube preamp will not tame brightness at all.Sibilence as was already mentioned is a different issue, but again sibilance is not remedied by use of tubes. In fact modern tube gear is as bright or brighter than many solid state pieces. The notion that tubes produce the sound you hear or heard from vintage equipment, which is frequently rolled off and syrupy, is a very widely held misconception.
That said the EH 6SN7 is not a great choice if you desire a fuller sound. Unfortunately there are no great sounding current production 6SN7s IMHO.
Sylvania GTBs are abundant, sound slightly euphonic, and do not cost much unless you buy from a dealer in these tubes. There are very reliable dealers but they do charge a premium, however the tubes will be what you are told they are, and frequently amongst the best around. In addition you can get true NOS. However, Sylvania GTBs are hardly your only choice.
It is only right that I warn you--- tube rolling can be habit forming. It's fun but can end up costing a lot.
You said your system in general, tends to be warm. You might try something intermediate. Try the less expesive types first, like the RCA GTB. These are also abundant and inexpensive, they are a somewhat less rich sounding and are a faster sounding tube. If you find nirvana with those you have managed to get away cheap. I do not recommend buying cheap tubes that have no name that you have heard about they are frequently true junk.
Beyond the GTBs things get a bit more difficult. You will need to watch the market be patient and see if you can get a good tube for a low price. It does happen, but you will never see a "holy Grail" go for a low price unless the seller is a known scammer etc.
Here is an example. If you want deeper bass extension and emphasis try to snag some Ken Rads,they are 1940-1950 tubes. Every version has essentially the same sonic signature. The price varies widely for arbitrary reasons, even though they are highly regarded by many enthusiasts. Look for metal deposits on the top of Ken Rad type tube, the getter is on the bottom in lightly used tubes the top is clear or has ver small deposits. Large deposits indicate that the tube has been well used (just to confuse you, they can still test strong but as a rule avoid significant metal vapor spotted tubes).
6SN7s tend to be microphonic etc. so there is always a risk of getting a bad tube. e-mail me on the side for more advice I have a fairly diverse and extensive collection.
The best dealer I have used in acquiring 90+ 6SN7s sells right here on Audiogon. I am not sure he ran an ad this week but he is "whoopdedooda". His real name is Len he runs an ad monthly on Audio Asylum under Len he is an expert 6SN7 dealer exclusively. As was mentioned there are several others sticking to home base try jsautter he has a variety of tubes. If you wish to use non audiogon sellers Tubeseller deals in 6SN7s only also an expert with links and information. Tubemonger has a variety of tubes but not much if any 6SN7s he has a good selection of accurately described pre amp tubes. I agree the Chrome Domes are very nice indeed. There are a couple of tubes however that given that name. Ebay is a minefield unless you know the seller or see something you know well. like a true "Bad Boy" in a mixed lot. Old tubes are in fact what you generally will find real NOS is not necessary, but a delight if you can find them. Len has some for sure he is meticulous in telling you the true nature of the tubes.