El34 = KT88 = KT120


Sure the KT120 is 2x;'s the size of a EL34.
But in my limited expereince ((thus far,,have 1 more experiement just ahead when my new speakers arrive and I build the cabinet, then further testing of the 3 types can begin) 
You get something nice of one tube vs the other 2, and another of he 3 shines better here, the last is slightly superior in this/that aspect.
6 of 1 /half dozen of the other.
I mean it all boils down  gain here, and give up something there.

Power  tube = power tube. 
I would not make such a  big deal over the comparisons. 
Thats said.
I think for me , i prefer the EL34 of all power tubes (as I've been told its the best of the 3) , Why?
Because its the ideal tube in a  PP amp for a  single wide band speaker. 
But i could be wrong, 
Will test out the 3 tubes in a few weeks. 
I actually could not hear much differences on the Seas speakers. All 3 sounded so very close. 
You might say the Kt120's out shoot the tiny EL34 in the  low bass fq's. 
I have Mundorf caps in the amp, these high end caps  adds a  nice punchy bass to any tube in the socket. 
The EL34 has just about same bass as the huge KT120's. 
I just don't see much difference  to debate the issue. 
mozartfan

Showing 3 responses by ticat

FWIW, I currently use an upgraded (volume pot, Mundorf caps, Takman resistors, custom chassis etc...)  Elekit TU 8340VK PP amp (with a semi auto bias feature, easy and accurate) . My recent experience is that in the past year, I have used New EH EL 34, New Gold Lion KT 77 and New KT 88 matched tube sets. Each pairing has a separate and distinct sound... all were good, but different. The choice is yours but there was a choice to be made. I stayed with the KT 77.

BTW, I agree with the potential of the Wide Band concept, it is difficult to execute properly though. I currently use an auto-former modified electrostatic system but have started a Wide Band project, that will incorporate Cube Audio WB drivers and transmission line cabinets. 

The Truth is Out There....
I had a modified Dynaco ST70 running EL 34's for many years (in a tri-amp arrangement driving Quad 57's along with T27's and Hegeman subs). Very nice, until I re-married and the "what are those..room heaters?" had to go.
I still regret selling the 57's AND the ST 70. Buy it to try it...

Onward and Upward...