2. amps-preamps
  3. 191886-148003

Seeking a Warm 12AX7 Tube for Preamp

Hi All-

 

I got hold of a newer tube preamp. I bought some match ed JJ 12AX7 tubed and after they burned in for a bit, they sound very strident and bright. Can anyone recommend  a tube brand that will be warmer in the upper mid and high frequencies? I can't afford NOS. I'd like to keep it under $100 for the pair matched. Viva Tubes has the new Mullard reissues, PSVane Art Series, Electro Harmonix Gold Pins, and Tung Sol Gold Pins in their new stock that are matched. Any suggestions?

 

Thanks 

spacecadet65

Showing 2 responses by paulcreed

paulcreed
566 posts
 

Buy a used Mullard that test as new, you can pick up one for under $100. RCA’s are fun and sound good, kind of in the middle between Mullard and Telefunkens. RCA’s are more of a guitar tube and sounds like it but still a nice tube. Telefunkens are very detailed, refined, either you like them or you don’t. The Gold Lion gold pin sound like they tried to copy the Telefunkens character. If you need a place to buy a used Tele pm me, 

paulcreed
566 posts
 

Should have said a pair of used Mullards are under $100 where I buy most of my tubes. He also warranty’s them. I bought a quad of used Mullard el34’s xf2’s from him almost ten years ago and played the hell out of them still pull them out every once in a while and they play well. I think he still sells a used quad of Mullard xf2’sel34’s that test high for under $400 or right at it. There not all going to be labeled the same. So good deals can be found. There are a lot of awesome tube dealers but they cost a premium and even there NOS tubes will red plate, never bought eBay tubes. 

More to discover