+1 for the Gold Lion KT77’s; and here’s how I got there:
I was looking for an alternative to stock EL34’s, so
first contacted Kevin Deal at Upscale Audio to get a recommendation. I
explained my sound objectives … the ability to convey emotion, natural tone,
with good low-end slam and transparency. Was there such a tube? Oh yeah. The KT77 was the clear choice, but I
still spent time checking out a bunch of reviews – first on Upscale, and then
on TubeStore.com
Since I have a drawer full of “spares” from tube rolling,
I wanted a bit more validation. This review sealed it. It reviews the “EL34 Family” of tubes. https://wallofsound.ca/audioreviews/tubes/el34-tube-comparison-with-tubes-supplied-by-www-thetubestore-com/
Installed the KT77’s and haven’t looked back since. I
concur with all those 5-star reviews.
The 6SN7 tubes are another story. @jkontuly my suggestion is to put in the Gold Lions. If you basically
liked the overall sound you were getting before, compare that and then decide
if KT77's give you enough of an improvement in sound quality. If not, and you
want more of what the Shuguang Black Treasures offer, go ahead and get the full
set. Hope that helps.
Happy Listening!