2. amps-preamps
  3. 1256748500

Rectifier Tube Clarification/Help W/ Dared 2000a

So after a bit of research I've made the plunge into the world of tube amplification and purchased a Dared SL-2000A based on price-point and positive feedback.

Nearly every source I've read says that replacing the Chinese rectifier tube is a great place to start if you want to get better sound out of the unit.

I'm just having a bit of trouble finding reliable, definitive information regarding which tubes to replace the stock ones with? I understand that the best tube is up to my subjective ear, but I'm just confused as to, technically, what rectifier tubes can go into the SL-2000a? (5Y3, 5V4, GZ34, GZ30, ect.)

I've read that going with a 5Y3 is a smart choice since "higher voltage = tighter sound." Any feedback would be appreciated or if anyone could point me to a technical document/white paper explaining rectifier tubes and their naming, that would also be appreciated. Personal recomdations as to what tubes and where to purchace them would be wonderful!

Thanks in advance for taking a minute.
scottyschweiz
Post removed 
bdgregory
1,712 posts
 
I had a 2000a and by far the best sounding rectifier I used was a Bugle Boy 5AR4/GZ34. It didn't seem to harm the pre, but I never checked if there's anything about its output that could add stress. I also tried a 5Y3, but the BB 5AR4 was night and day the best.
scottyschweiz OP
1 posts
 
Hifitime - thanks so much, a wonderful resource!

Rodman9999 and Bdgregory - I think the BB 5AR4 it is!
mooglie
101 posts
 
Is that BB GZ34 (5AR4) a Philips-Amperex Holland tube? That's my favorite, though some might prefer the Mullard design.
bdgregory
1,712 posts
 
Is that BB GZ34 (5AR4) a Philips-Amperex Holland tube? That's my favorite, though some might prefer the Mullard design.
yes it is. I haven't tried a Mullard so can't say . . .
More to discover