Thanks for the input guys. Funny, I just went from Gold Lion KT-88s Re-issue to the El-34s in my Mini Mites. I agree that the 88s are more exciting to listen to, but they do not have the euphonic midrange that I seem favor over the harmonic shadings/contrast the 88s provide. I currently have the Mullard re-issue 12AX7s in the Mini Mites and they sound really nice. It sounds like the recommendation is the Mullards as opposed to the somewhat problematic Teslas. If there are any other recommnedations for EL-34s that I did not mention, please feel free to chime in with your thoughts. My system consists of NAD preamp/Mini Mites driving the Harbeth Compact 7s (second generation)with Music Hall 5.1 TT and Shure 97XE cartridge with Vincent Phono preamp and Musical Fidelity M3CD player.
