NOS Tube Recommendation for Quicksilver Phono Pre Amp


I recently upgraded from the onboard phono stage in my Technics 1500SL to an all tube Quicksilver Phono Pre Amp. I’m about half way through the 30 hour recommended break-in period and so far, there is a lot to like about this piece of gear: Much thicker/more pronounced bottom end (I’ve had to readjust the gain on my subs quite a bit) and much wider/more defined sound stage. However, because I’m also running an all tube integrated amp (Raven Audio Osprey), there is now a very noticeable "warm" coloration to the music that wasn’t there before. I don’t want to give up on my new phono stage, but it’s like I’m listening to music with a wool blanket over my speakers. I’m thinking rolling the tubes to something a little cleaner/brighter could give me the best of all worlds. There are 3 tubes in the circuit topology: 2 12AX7s (one input, one gain) and 1 12AT7 (cathode follower). I’m currently considering a matched pair of Raytheon JRP black plate 12AX7s and either an RCA or Telefunken for the cathode follower (all NOS). Any and all suggestions/inputs are very much appreciated! P.S. my speakers are Raven Audio Corvus Reference Monitors and my current cart is the always amazing Nagaoka MP-500.

crawfishdaddi

Showing 1 response by skiznfliz

In my Phono Pre I run GE 5751 Black Plates - Triple Mica’s instead of 12AX7’s and LOVE THEM… The 5751’s make for a great phono pre tube, might want to consider over a 12AX7.

I also run a set of RCA 5751 Triple Mica Black Plates in my DAC and they do a great job of giving it a more of an analog sound than other tubes I’ve tried.(Mullard Reissues, Sovtek LPS’s, JJ’s, Pisvane’s)

Something to consider…Could also be a mismatch of synergy with your system based upon your cartridge not liking your phono pre or vise versa… Although the Nagaoka MP-500 is an awesome cart !!!  The 200 is my next cart !