I've never had a preamp that used a 6550, but in the past I have ran with a couple of 6550 based amps and I rolled a couple of different brands. I would think that there are better sounding 6550s than Sovtek (although Sovtek was one I never did try). As @noromance typed: just do not tell ARC.
Changing the 6550 power tube in a Audio Research Ref 6SE Preamp
Hi All,
I am rather new to tube gear, and have two 'novice-questions', especially for Audio Research Ref 6SE users. Thanks in advance for any insight...
Issue - it is now time to replace the Sovtek 6550 power tube in my ARC Ref 6SE preamp.
Obviously, I must to be certain to not damage the preamp, so...
a.) Is it SAFE to use a 6550 from a manufacturer other than Sovtek (i.e. JJ, GE Tung-Sol, etc.), or are there issues/incompatibilities that I need to keep in mind (e.g. "Stay away form Tung-Sol blue-plate tubes because they have...")?
b.) What was your SQ experience/impression after replacing the Sovtek 6550 tube with a different manufacturer's tube in a ARC Ref 6SE?
(If you are wondering... yes, I called ARC. The recommend and sell only the Sovtek 6550.)