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Question on tube rolling with Melody I2A3....

I recently purchased a Melody I2A3 integrated amp, and have been quite amazed by it's performance on my Reference 3A MM de Cappo-i speakers. The 6moons review on this amp is right on the money, and is certainly going to be a keeper for me. Have any I2A3 owners out there tried replacing the stock Sovtek 2A3s with other sanely priced ($500 or less for the quad) 2A3's with noticeably better results? I replaced the stock 6SN7's with some nice 1950's Sylvania green label 6SN7GTB's, and the results were greatly improved dynamics, detail and speed, with even better extension in the highs. If upgrading the 2A3's gives similar improvements, I will be an extremely happy camper! Any suggestions?
bigshutterbug

Showing 2 responses by bigshutterbug

bigshutterbug OP
386 posts
 
I have looked into this as well.., The 101D you mentioned can be found new on E-Bay for $240/pr mfd. by Guiguang, or TJ makes a meshplate version for the same price, available at DIYAudio site.
bigshutterbug OP
386 posts
 
Yes, do be sure to give the Sylvania GTB's a try in this amp. The stock 6SN7's give the amp a warmer, thicker midrange that is relaxing, but the Sylvanias made it faster and more neutral, with lots of detail and attack.
Extension on the highs are now amazing. I also tried some of the more desireable 1940's Sylvania VT-231 6SN7GT's in the amp, which gave me even more detail, but they were a bit too lean in the midrange. The GTB's had better tonal balance.
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