Neutral and open sounding 300B tubes
Hey everybody I just want add this extensive tube roll test of a good amount 300B tubes done by the late Ian Grant of Grant Fidelity for everyone to review. http://grantfidelity.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=281 He covers a lot of 300B tubes so I hope this helps everyone. I know it is one person's take on these tubes but it is better than nothing. |
If you have output transformers in an amp, you cannot choose a 'better' 300B because you'll have sound artifacts, so the differences will be muted/distorted. If you have a resistor based volume control, you cannot choose a better 300B, because again the differences will be muted. If you have an OTL amp AND a Transformer or LED volume control, you can then give us all an accurate description of the sound a 300B. |
Well, my experience is quite different I must say. My Coincident Frankenstein MK II mono block 300b SET has output transformers. Over the years I have had the opportunity to use a wide variety of 300b tubes. Elrog EML XLS EML Mesh plate (a legitimate "mesh plate") KR XLS Takatsuki Shuguang black Treasure Western Electric Reissue (1990s) Electric Harmonic Sophia Royal Princess Sophia Mesh plate (actually a perforated plate, not a true mesh). With my system I could very easily and pretty quickly discern and hear distinctions (subtle and not so subtle) amongst all of this tubes. Each one of them clearly has their own unique sonic character. BTW my system utilizes the Coincident Statement Line Stage which has transformer volume controls. What 300b OTL amplifiers are available? Charles |
Have you thought about KRs? One of the things that is interesting about the KRs is that they offer a higher plated dissipation than a typical 300B, 50w vs. 40w. Wonderful all around tube that will bias a little higher without compromising tube life. It is a bit slow in getting them because of COVID 19 but these are on your budget ($1000). They deliver more than the EMLs. The other interesting tube is the the Sophia Classic in Blue Glass. They are best with Sophia's rectifiers. Be cautious of the EML mesh plate. You need to potentially lower the bias as it operates best at 22w and will burn up above 28w. This is not a problem on other 300Bs. We sell a lot of 300Bs and I have EML, Sophia's current stock (which is abridged) and KR. Site is www.artaudio.us |
