Most Musical 6NS7 tube for a Preamp?


A request for recommendations by those with experience with different 6SN7 tubes.

My system so far is a Pass Labs XA25 SS Amp, and a circa 1988 Tannoy FSMs.
The speakers operate at 4 ohms with a 94 sensitivity.

The room size is medium. Acoustically well treated.

I listen at lower volumes 60-75db. Vocals mostly.

I am looking for the most musical preamp, with a remote.

Budget is $3k. Used preferred. Better value.

Not considering anything from Schiit Audio.

Considering- Supratek Chardonnay.

Any other suggestions?

Tube Ideas?

Thank you!
chorus

Showing 4 responses by kw6

LTA MZ2 is not a good match for the Pass. I'm selling mine. The combo has great bass but too clean. No air or lush mids.
Chorus I am in same boat looking to upgrade my cjet3se.  My dream pre is the Vinnie Rossi L2. I own a Pass Xa25 too. It needs a little helping of sugar to balance the sound. This amp as the continueness of tubes with speed and detail most tubes can't match. I am looking at Prima Luna Evo 300 Cary slp 98l. Only problem with these is they come with off the shelf volume Alps pot. Even Jadis uses Alps.😒 It's ok but not SOTA. Let me know what you end up with.
My finalist

Prima Luna Evo 300
Don Sachs pre
Valvet L2

BTW best 6SN7 Shuguang WE6SN7 then CV-181 Black glass.