2. amps-preamps
  3. 999322896

help me select a single tube to "calm down" a preamp?

I have an Audio Research LS2B. It can get a tad "strident" in the upper mid on some recordings. I am now using a Siemens 7308 / E188cc and this is good, and often great tube for soundstaging and openess, but this tube also is a little noisy, mildly bright at times and is not the last word in bass performance. Would a Mullard suit the bill?.... How about an Amperex?....Your thoughts oh kind tube-0-philes :>)
audioman
audiojudge

Showing 2 responses by audiotomb

audiotomb's avatar
audiotomb
1,112 posts
 
I own an LS2 MKII and have similiar results with the slightly shrill top end. A friend of mine mentioned a Dutch tube that helped tame, not cure it. I auditioned an LS5 in my home and it just brought out the natural nature of the music in resounding colors. Incredible bottom end, silky smooth mids and revealing top end without the LS2 slight glare. I'll have to wait 6 months to get one,
can't wait.
audiotomb's avatar
audiotomb
1,112 posts
 
Oh

I forgot to mention. If you are using a digital front end and have digital outs on your cd player or transport, the EVS Millenium II dac will really enhance the lower octaves, leave a natural shimmer and air and musicality to the midrange and remove all the digital harshness that contributes to the slightly shrill top end. It hasn't fully tamed it, but it sure lowered the edge and provided the musical lift as significant as going to the LS 5. Now I really can't wait for the pre amp upgrade.
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