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Modern EL34s VS NOS Winged C - and return policies?

A couple questions for the tube veterans here:

1. If I buy a new set of premium tubes and they sound fine but just don’t have the magic I’m after, can I usually return them?

2. What current-production EL34 comes closest to the NOS Svetlana SED Winged C?

My setup:

• Sonore ultraRendu streamer

• Gustard R26 DAC

• PrimaLuna EVO 400 preamp

• PrimaLuna EVO 300 power amp

• PureAudioProject Trio15 Classics

I’ve rolled Tung-Sol KT150s, KT120s, Gold Lion KT88s, the stock PrimaLuna tubes, and NOS Svetlana SED Winged C EL34s. The SEDs absolutely destroy the others in soundstage and holography — it’s not subtle. I often struggle to hear big differences between DACs and streamers, but the SEDs are jaw-dropping.

I’m tempted to sell off all my other tubes and double down on EL34s, but I worry a new set might not have the same magic. I’m also willing to pay for another set that does.

Any thoughts on modern EL34 alternatives or experiences dealing with tube dealers who are sympathetic to nutcases like me? Thanks!

brighamdoc

Showing 1 response by joeycastillo

joeycastillo
45 posts
 

my only experience with EL34 was with a older Decware Zen SE34i 

Yes, I can confirm that the SED Winged C El34 Tubes, back then were Cryod, had the magic that no other El34 can match. 

have you tried Brent at audiotubes.com? SED winged C EL34 are a beautiful sounding tube. I don't know of any other tubes that can match it. I can hear back then what tubes can do. my speaker were Lowther DX back then, its able to resolve changes in tube rolling and the SED El34 has a big impact

IMO, i dont think there is any other EL34 by other brands that can match SED winged C.  but you can ask Brent from audio tubes

 

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