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Tube Rolling on PSE HL1 hybrid line stage preamp

I just recently purchased a PSE Hybrid line stage pre-amp. I have heard that tube rolling can make a difference in this preamp. This thing is a real sleeper it easily equalled the Sonic Frontiers Line 3 and sounded much better than the VTL 5.5, Plinius M16, Classe CP-60. I have it paired with Vandersteen MOdel 5 speakers which are the front end of a home theater and 2 channel system. My amp is a Sim Audio Titan. The sound of this combination is awesome but I thought maybe could make it a litter better if someone has had experience with other than the Sovtek 6922's. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
richfield_hunter

Showing 4 responses by albertporter

albertporter's avatar
albertporter
4,949 posts
 
Is this a product of PSE and Dean Klinefelter of Minnesota? I ask because I have not heard much about his products in the last few years.

In response to your question about 6922 tubes, almost anything is better than the Sovtek. I would begin with Mullard, Siemens or Amperex 6922. Not knowing the sound of this product and what tonal change you are after, it is difficult to suggest a specific NOS tube.
albertporter's avatar
albertporter
4,949 posts
 
Dean is a great guy, hope the tube swaps bring the preamp to where you want it. I searched Google but could not find a page for PSE or an image of your preamp.
albertporter's avatar
albertporter
4,949 posts
 
I was waiting for someone else to respond to your question. I am not a fan of Phillips JAN 6922. They are almost as bad as the Sovtek in distortion and tonal balance.

Why don't you call Andy Bauman at Vintage Tube, 616-454-3467 or Bruce Wenger at BWS, 703-536-3910.

Based on previous experience with PSE products I would purchase Mullard or Telefunken (6DJ8 / 6922), rather than the Amperex or Siemens.

I would want to warm up the PSE just a little, particularly if your using digital as one of your sources.
albertporter's avatar
albertporter
4,949 posts
 
I agree with Richard Vandersteen about the inclusion of tubes. He has been making "that comment" for several years. It always brings a smile to my face when I hear people still repeating it.

If you should speak with Dean at PSE, have him call me. I would like to know how he's doing.
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