The term "king" can be applied in different manners with each of these tubes. One may be "king" for power output, while another may be "king" of sonic quality, and another may be "king" in popularity.
There is no question that the 300B is the most popular and one of the best sounding of the triodes. But power output is well behind the other 2 you mention.
The tube is only a means to an end, and must be considered with the rest of the circuit in mind. The efficiency level of your speakers and your listening tastes must also be considered.
Many consider the 300B to be the best of the triodes, but many others now are moving towards 2A3 and 45 tubes, as being more delicate and detailed, albeit with less bass output. Alot depends on taste.
I personally vote for the 45 as the best triode. But it only provides about 2 watts.
There is no question that the 300B is the most popular and one of the best sounding of the triodes. But power output is well behind the other 2 you mention.
The tube is only a means to an end, and must be considered with the rest of the circuit in mind. The efficiency level of your speakers and your listening tastes must also be considered.
Many consider the 300B to be the best of the triodes, but many others now are moving towards 2A3 and 45 tubes, as being more delicate and detailed, albeit with less bass output. Alot depends on taste.
I personally vote for the 45 as the best triode. But it only provides about 2 watts.