Which preamps use 6922/6DJ8 tubes?


I have some high end NOS 6922 tubes and am looking to change preamps. What do you recommend for a preamp, somewhere in the $2000-$4000 range (used is good too) that uses these tubes. My power amp is an Accuphase A47 class A power amp.

Thanks for your help.

ullogu1

Showing 3 responses by petg60

One way is to find a preamp which uses E88CC, many are going to recommend something nice and the list will grow, the other one is to get a preamp that uses different kind of tubes or no tubes at all and sell your NOS stock. Best is to listen what matches your power amp.

LS5 (all versions), LS25 (mk1),  Ref1 (mk1), Ref2 (mk1) all these are 6922 based.

 

Another point to consider is that we are talking about line stages or preamps made after the 90’s and manufacturers did create their preamps with one russian type tube in mind for both durability and sound. The Russian NOS variant 6n23p/6n23p-v/6n23p-ev can last long and play great. Especially the 6n23p Voskhods, 1975-1979 period and the ultimate 6n23p Reflektor 1974-1975 period. These 6n23p (and even some made in early 80’s) would be the best version of that voicing compared to any tube made in the 50’s-60’s.

These particular 6n23p can smoke everything in 6922 family, can take punishment but unfortunately in the last years their prices have gone crazy, and if you can find the proper ones they easily surpass the western alternatives.

The EV versions- different tube not in the same league as the above but reasonably plentiful, and they were destined for space travel too.