Supratek Owners Thread

@tksteingraber @noromance thanks very much!

@tholt ,.. The gain reduction is mainly for matching the pre to very sensitive amps,..(ie, solidstate) where there would not be much play in the VC.  It is best left un-engaged if it is not needed but is pretty transparent when in use.    With most modern source outputs being in the 1.5 - 4v range,  the main VC really shouldn't ever need to be raised above the 12'oclock position.   Much beyond that you could start to overload the input with such a high source V.   The pre is a VERY high gain device and easily accept very low v. sources (ie,. iPhone,  etc..)..  I find the best volume knob range to be around 9-10'oclock for standard ~2v source components..    if this is range is too loud in the room,..   use the gain reduction to set a goo volume,  then leave it at that position and go back to main VC as standard adjustment. 

  From a tube standpoint,  you won't really find any useful gain reduction with the tubes the pre will accept.   The 6L6's are circuit voltage regulators only and do not affect gain,.. they just provide a rock steady voltage for everything else to run on.

Hope this helps,   Best,

@jslateiv thanks. I accidentally deleted my post. I went to edit it and somehow confirmed delete. My bad for having a nightcap while I surf apparently lol. Regardless, your post is helpful. I'll continue to play with the gain knob. Also good to know about the tubes.

I have a Cabernet DHT /6SN7 that Mick made in 2021. I love it. Recently, one of the 6L6 regulator tubes went bad, leaving me one non matching 6L6 as backup. How much difference does the quality of the regulator tubes make? What are your favorites. For reference,  I have rolled many of the other tubes. My favorite rectifier has been the Bendix 6106. Recently, I've been enjoying the Sophia 274B. For DHT, I've settled on 45's, specifically the National Unions. I have Psvanes that were shipped in the 6SN7  slots. In my setup, the 6SN7's are not used. Before, they had provided the the signal for the subwoofer amp. Now, the 45's provide the signal to all amps.

@tubes4good 

My Cabernet from the same time frame shipped with Tung Sol's but I have also used JJ's and hear no difference between them or with the NOS Russian ones that shipped with my Chardonnay in 2019.  So my advice is just pick one of the new production brands and go with it.  

jackd Thanks

Anyone try the Revelation Audio power cord? I got the unbiblical unbiblical for a nice improvement. Wonder what the power cord, in tandem may bring. I already have an aftermarket power cord from a local artisan that is nice with my Cabernet. 

I've read a few people liking the Bendix 6106 rectifier for their Cabernet power supply. Does this tube also work in the Chardonnay PSU? I would assume so but... don't want to assume! Thx

The V. reg circuit is the same for all Supra's so yes,  the 6106 will work.   The circuit uses the tube to makes sure the voltage proceeding it is always steady, ie. the same set voltage.   The tubes are self-regulating for bias current so no need to for matched tubes.  some people hear a diff. in tube varieties some don't.  I personally hear little dif. if any.  Just make sure to stick with 6L6, KT66 type/family of tubes.