2. amps-preamps
  3. 1301356871

tube recommendation please

I am brand new to tubes and need some advice. I have a PrimaLuna Prologue three which use two 5AR4, two 12AX7, and two 12au7. I listen to female vocal mainly, hopefully I can get bigger sound stage, and smooth and warm vocal.

I start off with the 12ax7 and ordered a pair of Tungsram produced in 1967. I am also planning to get a pair of 1960's Amperex, but I am waiting for some more reasonably priced.

My question is .. what should I get next? Should I upgrade the 5AR4 or the 12AU7 next? and is there any suggestion on those tubes?
gte357s
detredwings
162 posts
 
Gte357 which of the two tubes is first in line is not really so important. You can be sure they are both in the signal path. I build tube preamps myself (diy). All the designs I have came across use one stage for gain and one is for drive/impedance matching.

I have not tried the Full Music 12au7's yet. But I'm building an Aikido line-stage preamp and plan to use those in the gain stage. I can't see how you would be disappointed if you tried them.
reynolds853
385 posts
 
Gte357,

In my experience with my Rogue 99 preamp and M180 monoblocks the signal tube position, as I call it, definitely provided the dominant signature. This was also my experience with an Ayon Spirit integrated amp. It sounds like you'll have to experiment and see if the same holds true for your preamp.
michaelo
5 posts
 
Hi Gte357s

I bought mine new and it comes with the Prima Luna labeled Sino (China) tubes. Those Full Music tubes seem to be no longer available Grant audio suggest the Psvane 12AU7-T. Do you have a SS or tube Amp? I have a stash of tubes I can roll into the Prologue. I tend to like the RCA black plates or the long plates. The RCA 12au7 black plates are pretty lush tubes you may like them. I e mailed Kevin, but haven't recieved a reply. Will let you know when I recieve his e-mail.

Michael
markmmm
12 posts
 
after much experimentation I agree RCA Clear top Side Getter for signal, Drivers not as important go with GE JAN 6189 set. The newer primaluna integrated are all 12au7 tubes. You can purchase the above 4 tubes via ebay about $40-$60. Make darn sure you are actually 2 RCA clear tops. Look at the pictures. There are those who sell "matched sets...where only one of the tubes is an RCA clear top. The other is usually devoid of printing. 
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