2. amps-preamps
  3. 1240772275

replacement tubes for Cayin A50T

I am fairly new to tube amps but really enjoy my A50T. I listen to mostly jazz, blues and classical. My speakers are KEF-104AB. While I really enjoy A50T I am hoping for deeper sound stage like my brief encounter with a McIntosh MX110 + MC240. On the A50T good recordings are warm and present pin point placement of instruments and voices and a wide stage but the depth of the stage is behind the speakers. If my memory is correct the McIntosh soundstage was both in front and behind the speakers. I have read varied opinions about different EL34/KT77 choices and have also read the preamp tubes affect the sound stage. The A50T uses 12AX7EH and 12AU7EH. Do you recommend I start with the EL34s, 12AX7 or 12AU7?

Within the EL34 choices I have read more praises for Winged "C" SED then any other. I have also read Tung-Sol sounds the same but a bit cheaper. The final noteworthy choice is the Gold Lion KT77.
lsilies

Showing 1 response by lsilies

lsilies OP
1 posts
 
Larryrx7 and Mechans, thank you both for your input. You both pointed to the 12AX7 and 12AU7 which supports my suspicion that the soundstage starts there. Larryrx7, I do have the Tungsol 12AX7 installed and agree the amp is more open compared to the stock 12AX7 in the A50T. Now to research an Amprex in the 12au7. At first glance at ebay they won't be cheap.

Thanks again,

Les
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