2. amps-preamps
  3. 190729-187807

Looking for 5AR4 rectifier tube most like solid state

I have the Cary SLP-05 preamp (with the Ultimate Upgrade), which sounds exceedingly good in most respects. Unfortunately, it's sorely lacking in rhythmic excitement (what various British companies call Pace, Rhythm and Timing, or PRaT).

I suspect that the 5AR4 tube rectifier is at least partially to blame. In general, tube rectifiers exhibit "sag". This helps some aspects of the performance, but is likely dulling transients that are needed to create faster dynamics (e.g. percussive envelopes).

Cary has told me that I cannot insert an equivalent solid-state rectifier, as it would require a power supply redesign. Instead, I'm hoping to find a 5AR4 tube that mostly closely behaves like a solid state rectifier. I don't want it to be warm, or smooth, or anything like that. This preamp already has an overabundance of those qualities. Instead, I want it to be fast, dynamic, rhythmic, and exciting, with a real sense of "boogie".

Any suggestions?

boxsoft

Showing 1 response by vthokie83

vthokie83
1,031 posts
 

boxsoft

First off, (before you buy anything) do yourself a favor and reach out to Brent Jessee at audiotubes.com, he is the most knowledgeable and best tube supplier out there. He can help with recommendations, and probably has experience supplying tubes for your equipment.

Great tubes are expensive. I can highly recommend the NOS Philips 5R4GYS, and the NOS Mullard GZ37....if they are compatible with your gear. The Philips is magical, and the GZ37 is really close

As others have mentioned, in most gear the 6SN7s have a greater impact on SQ. For NOS tubes (and I can recommend) the 1940s Sylvania 6SN7GT/VT-231 "Black Plates",  and 1950s Sylvania VT-231 "Bad Boy" tubes......both of these will cost you $250 to $300 per pair.

For new production, my favorite is the Linlai E-6SN7s. They can be found for $155 per pair at jjyaudio, which is a very reputable Chinese supplier

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