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Questions from a Tube Preamp newbie

I have my Rogue RP-5 back from warranty repair and I am loving how it sounds. While at Rogue, they installed 4new JJ 12au7-s tubes. Sounds great. I have some questions.

1. with about 2 hours daily playing, how long do typical preamp tubes last (I have heard Rogue's, like CJ, can be hard on tubes)

2. Do new tubes need broken in? if so, what is normal time frame?

3. Does tube rolling really make a difference on a preamp vs power amp?

4. What is the general concensus on JJ tubes for a preamp? Again, I am really happy with the sound, so I probably won't change. However, I will eventually probably get the itch.

Thanks
aberyclark

Showing 8 responses by aberyclark

aberyclark OP
1,410 posts
 
What are the sound signatures of the Gold Lions vs the stock JJ's? The NOS Mullards are pricey plus, I hear they do not last as long
aberyclark OP
1,410 posts
 
What was the problem with your Rogue preamp? If I remember correctly there was a lot of hiss, etc. What did Rogue do to it besides change tubes?

They told me that they repalced some Op-amps and added some grounding to the LED display
aberyclark OP
1,410 posts
 
I think the Brimars are Kevins favorite. The smooth mids of mullard without high end roll off. Plus, cheaper than mullards
aberyclark OP
1,410 posts
 
I wonder if the Brimars add more sparkle on the top end vs the JJ's. I hope not. I think the JJ's top end (and low end) is perfect. Just a little more silk on the mids would be nice.
aberyclark OP
1,410 posts
 
I wouldn't use the term sparkle to describe the Brimars, I would say they have a nice amount of "air" in the highs, a very realistic sound.
RCA Cleartops and Amperex have sparkle, meaning extended highs. Never tried JJs.

My zus have the super tweeters and I do not want to add more sparkle. Now “air” should be fine. I may try a set. I guess if i thought they were a smidge too bright, i could always just use two and use two jjs
aberyclark OP
1,410 posts
 
I've heard good things about the gold lions
aberyclark OP
1,410 posts
 
The JJ's are still running strong after over a year of everyday listening. After new years I think I will try Gold Lions from Cryost or from Upscale Audio with their CJ/Rogue match option.
aberyclark OP
1,410 posts
 
So sorry to hear about Ron Sheldon. I hope he improves
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