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VAC Signature MK2a pre "phono tube questions"

Hi there I have a VAC pre with MC/MM, upon opening noticed there are two roles of 3 12AX7 tubes in each totaling 6.

Question;

1. Anyone have any experience tube rolling these and if so with what?

2. Are they three matched pairs or all matched?

3. They are a Chinese tube that came standard with the pre., anything special about them?
I have found on other gear which came with Chinese 12AX7 tubes they were nothing special and by substituting I found the sound was transformed, sounding allot better using other tubes.

4. Can you mix and match, say the first role Bugle Boys, second Tel for examaple or best to stay with one brand through out.

I have allot of really nice matched pairs but only that.

Any assistance would be appreciated.
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Showing 1 response by pcosta

pcosta
241 posts
 
Inna

Most manufacturers do not use because of cost and availability. Most manufactures buy new tubes by the case and sort them out from there usually from China or Russia.
I am sure most would love to supply nice NOS, but have you tried buying a nice matched pair of Telefunken 12AX7 lately, you will likely pay around $200 and up depending on vintage and type.

Also when you use the Chinese or Russian tubes you have a standard to work with, meaning customers will be able to find the same tubes now and not have to hunt for expensive NOS. So the sound is consistant with what the manufacuter has sold you.

All that being said nice NOS tubes are very good compared to most of what is available new today.
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