2. amps-preamps
  3. 159375-143105

Should I upgrade my Tubes

I have a Rogue Audio Magnum II which is 100 Watts per channel paired with Vandersteen Treo CT speakers. My tubes seem to be shot as suddenly I get no amplification (just very low level audio). The 4 power tubes are TUNG-SOL KT120. I have been reading about getting "better" tubes but every discussion seems to get into "depends how you like the sound" types of comments similar to every other audio component - LOL.

So what's a man do ?
readheads

Showing 2 responses by oldhvymec

oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
Call me picky, but I have some great 6550s Tung sol (GEs) they make the MC60s just sound wonderful, NOS 1964s I think.. A set of 8 NOS would be 2k easy more like 3-4k.  

KT88s sound NOTHING like a 6550, 6550 is US made KT88 is across the pond stuff.  The old Golden lyon is another great valve, but to be honest higher failure rates, than I'm use to.. (the new stuff anyways).

A lot of the newer KT88 stock is real close in sonics, to me. But a 
1957-68 or so GE 6550. Just one step beyond better...

PSVANE is a real good valve, you might want to look into that one to..
Very positive reviews from some pretty snobbish valve guys...

Regards
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
Check them at least, ay. Do you have a way, or know someone?

It will also tell you how much is still there, and when you might need to change them, or at least be looking for some good replacements.

Panic buying is no fun, over a valve. A spare or two is never a bad idea,
and you really don't want to let them FAIL, before replacing...
It can cause more than a valve to fail.. ok...

The Tubes, what a crazy band.... :-)

Regards
More to discover