2. amps-preamps
  3. 134963-91258

EL34 tubes- alternates to matched octet for Primaluna HP dialogue premium

I have the Primaluna Dialogue Premium HP power amp that uses 8 EL34 tubes.  I am currently using the stock EL34s, but have noticed a nice improvement in imaging when I switched to NOS mullards 12au7s.

As I look at playing around with different power tubes, (especially NOS Varieties) I see numerous sets of matched quads out there, but never matched octets, unless they are new production.

my question is this:  what do I lose sonically by using unmatched tubes, or two sets of matched quads, or four sets of matched pairs?  Wondering if since the Primaluna is self biasing, if it is less sensitive to non-matched tubes than other amps? 


meiatflask

Showing 3 responses by meiatflask

meiatflask OP
142 posts
 
There are several references to the PL integrated.  I have the power amp version, running a separate preamp.  I assume the comments apply to the power amp version as well as the integrated.

to 1graber2- yes the 8136 mullards at 120 each.  Might be the best money I have ever spent for a sonic improvement, best bang for the buck.
meiatflask OP
142 posts
 
bluesy41- in what way are the KT150 better than the stock EL34?  midrange warmth, imaging, detail, soundstage, bass?   are they a "blow me away" change? and who's KT150s are you using?

tooblue & lloydc- are the Shuguang 6CA7-Z 50 Year Treasure Tubes a "nice improvement" over the stock EL34s or a "blow me away" change?

the NOS mullards 12au7 was a blow me away change in terms of soundstage and imaging.  I am wondering if I can find a similar improvement in the power tubes.  And I am not opposed to spending a few bucks.  After all, the other option to serious upgrade is a better amp, which is a whole lot more money than tubes.
meiatflask OP
142 posts
 
@tooblue - sounds like an offer I can’t refuse.  How do we do this? Can you send me a message/email outside of the discussion so we can word out the details directly?
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