Which tube spots for which affects?


Here's something I've now been pondering about tube sets in preamps.  Which positions in them are more likely to have what affect on the sound  when rolling?  For example my new-ish Raven Blackhawk has 3 pairs in the pre amp section that are noted as Preamp, Power amplifier first stage, Phase inverter/driver.  Is one set more or less likely than the others to affect say, warmth or another pair dynamics?  Which the sound stage?  Are some locations better for a "euphonic" tube or a very accurate set?  I'm sure it's really the sum of ALL the parts but maybe they each have their particular impacts.  Hearing differences but wondering if there's a pattern/ causal/predictability to it all.  I don't expect there's a single answer but maybe enough anecdotal evidence and experience might show a trend.  

akgwhiz

Showing 1 response by avanti1960

i had a blackhawk and loved it.  all three small tubes matter.  beg, borrow or steal 2 amperex bugle boy 12AT7 for the preamp tubes.  amazingly open, transparent and dynamic.  

i also used rca 12AU7 5963 black plates in the back row and sylvania 12AT7 jan triple mica for the front row. 

the rca and sylvania are cheap but excellent, the amperex are not but well worth it.