2. amps-preamps
  3. 176847-155632

Tube noise when gain is increased, tube issue?

Adjusting gain on my preamp improves the sound vibrancy who makes it sound better.  But when I turn it higher the tubes tend to make a buzzing/humming noise which goes away when I turn it back.  
 

Is this a tube problem or a gain problem.  It's nice to maximize the gain setting before distortion occurs.

jumia

Showing 3 responses by newbee

newbee
4,786 posts
 

Russ69, FWIW I think OP was referring to using his attenuator to adjust gain. At least that is how I read it.

newbee
4,786 posts
 

Sounds like noisy tubes. Could be a noise floor issue depending on amp/speaker/ interface especially speakers with high sensitivity. I like the former if for no other reason than it is easier to solve.  

newbee
4,786 posts
 

Finding low noise 6sl7's can be difficult and expensive but that may be the only solution to your problem. What is the sensitivity level of your speakers? If it is too high then perhaps its not so much the tubes as the interface between your amp and speakers.

BTW, what brand of 6sl7's are in your Schiit now?

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