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EL84 amp Vs. EL34 amp

I currently own a very nice sounding 12 wpc Audio Space Mini Galaxy EL84 int amp. Its a 2 chassis piece with separate power supply and adj. negative feedback switch. I've been thinking of getting an EL34 int amp in the $4-500 range just because its more powerful and I would have more speaker choices.

I've read comparisons of EL34 and KT88 tubes, but sonically, how would you compare EL84 amps and EL34 amps? Is the EL34 just a more powerful version of the EL84?

I look forward to your responses.
lou_setriodes

Showing 5 responses by pubul57

pubul57
3,712 posts
 
I agree.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
I think Nolitan has captured the generalizations precisely. But do remember that the ciruit can influence those difference quite a bit. I have an EL84 and EL34 amp from the same manufacturer, in his circuit the EL34 sounds more like the typical EL84 sound, as described above, but with 162 watts to drive most any speaker.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Lou, I have the RM9 Special Edition $9,500) and the RM10MKII ($1950) and can tell you that is 30 watts is enough power the RM10 is about as good as the come and you find them for $1,000 used - you also get 10,000 hours of tube life and they are relatively cheap tubes, and they only use for output tubes. I think both tubes are special, but the difference are what has been described. But you know Roger would never build a warm, euphonic amp!
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
The RM10MKII is $1,950 spanking new and since they are incredibly reliable, they are an excellent used buy at $1,000 and with right speakers are as good as any amplifier out there, with the possible exception of OTLs, but that is another kettle of fish. Seriously if 35 watts enough power, you should consider the Music Reference RM10. Also works really well with a passive pre due to its hign input impedance and sensitivity, making for a low cost SOTA amplification system.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
What are you considering in that price range? Used Cayin?
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