Original Cary 300B Monos Reliability?

Charles - I found the information regarding concerns with the Carys running the 300Bs near their limits. It came from the EML web page. They suggested the XLS as a best option for Cary. Those tubes may draw more amperage, so I would check with Cary to confirm that the power supply will have no issue. Might also be a question about the base fitting into the tube cutout (a little on the lean side). I know the WE will fit and be a great tube, but I wouldn't mind paying a bit less.

Current preamp is a Croft 25 w/ phono. It's quite good without complaints, but other options might bump things up another notch.

Two-Left - thanks for taking the time to reply. I won't go wrong if I get the WE, especially based on your experience. If they last 10-15 years, it will be a great investment!

Thanks all, for offering your feedback. I understand schematics, but I'm not good at all with the math for circuit design. The discussion centered around too much capacitance after the rectifier, and they also thought the 300B was run quite hard. Many who chimed in "knew" that Cary had made dubious circuit decisions through the years. I was just looking for any real-world issues with former owners of the first iteration of the monos.

Charles, I was hoping you would check in. You weighed in on my Cary/ProAc questions a little while back. I have an Audible Illusions M3B lined up to borrow when I get the Carys, so I'll be duplicating a system I heard so many years ago. 

I really like my CJ CAV45 S2, but I still want a little more of the reach out and touch them midrange that I recall from the Carys. I'm closing in on a deal for a nice original pair with the additional 14 capacitor bank - just have to work out shipping for three boxes $$$. I also acquired a pair of Response 2 speakers, so I'm ready to get this going!

Will let you know when things come together.

Update: somewhat disappointed with the Cary monos/ProAc R2 combo, BUT, my 16 ohm single driver speakers (Finale Audio: Vivace Mini) are an excellent match. I'm missing a little bit of the mid-bass weight from my JBL L112 along with ultimate volume. For most daily listening, these Cary's are just what I was looking for. 

I am looking to max out the 6SL7 and 300B tube options. I'm thinking new WE 300B ($1,500!!!) and some nice NOS 6SL7 tubes. Any thoughts on these options would be appreciated.

Charles, what's your preamp with the Coincidents?

Thanks SNS. I need to look into biasing the monos.

MW - sage advice. I’ll be ordering some WEs!