TUBE GAIN


I currently have two QuickSilver line stage pre-amps. They both have identical gain. One uses 12AX7 tubes, the other uses 6922 tubes. The one with the 12AX7 has loud volume at 11 o'clock and the 6922 the same volume is at 2 o'clock. Is the 12AX7 a more higher output tube than the 6922 tube? I prefer the volume output on the 6922 tubes. Can this be corrected?
Thanks,
Yogiboy
128x128yogiboy

Showing 2 responses by aball

If you prefer the gain of the 6922, you can try using 5751 instead of 12AX7. The 5751 is a direct replacement with an amplification factor of 70 (not as low as the 6922 but still better than 100). Besides, all of the 5751 I have tried sounded fantastic.

Arthur
Indeed, it would be best to check with Quicksilver first. But keep in mind that some designers will object to you tampering with their perfection, despite the fact the swap will not damage the circuit. The two types are too similar for dire consequences to result (tubes have very loose tolerances anyway). The amp will simply not sound exactly as the designer intended it but, as the owner, which sound is better is for your ears and system to decide IMO. Just like rolling tube brands or sending your amp off to have mods done to it by a third party.

However, I do want to state for the record that using a 12AX7 in a circuit designed for 5751 is NOT a good idea. But the reverse is technically ok, if perhaps not subjectively so.

Arthur