Do I need new tubes?


Until recently, when I turned on my rig it immediately sounded full bodied and rich. In the last few weeks I’ve noticed it doesn’t reach this state immediately, but rather until at least after an hour. From then on it’s fine.
Is this a sign my preamp tubes are aging? My amp is solid state and always on.

rvpiano

Showing 1 response by dogearedaudio

That helps, but also raises the question, did you buy NOS or "used test strong" Tele’s? They may not be as strong as they could be. And honestly, the Telefunken 12AU7 is not one of their best efforts, IMO.

The 7316 is by far the best 12AU7, but they are quite expensive now. The RCA clear-tops are highly regarded and are not much more expensive than new-manufacture varieties. I happen think the Genelex Gold Lion small signal tubes are pretty nice, so that might be a way to perk up your CJ.