Your NOS tube favorites.


Just wondering what manufacturers and models of NOS (new old stock) vacuum tubes you guys/gals really like? I have some GE 12BH7A (not sure of the date) that sound very good. Also tried the Sylvania 12BH7A and Sylvania FAA 6SN7GTB and JAN 6SN7W GTA (various years from 1968 to 1979)

Which tubes have worked the best for you?
128x128Ag insider logo xs@2x2psyop
I wouldn’t say the Mullards are dull. During all these years Mullards made many different types of 12AX7 or 12AU7, and many others.
The 50’ Mullard is not the 70’ sound. The short and long plates doesn’t sound the same also. Same thing for the Military specs etc etc etc.MC1, MC2, MC6, I65, I63, I60, CV... , M..., All have ther own sound. None ot them sound bright or ananlytical (I think).
The way you melt your different tubes in your gear is the key fot obtaining the sound you like the best.
My favourites always seem to be expensive:

Tung Sol 6SN7GT/ VT-231         Black Round Plates.
Sylvania JAN-CHS VT-231.
Amperex (or Philips) 7308 PQ.
Tung Sol 12AU7 Black glass.
Brimar CV4004 Boxplates.



I have always wanted to try Mullards...and Telefunkens
They're polar opposites, but both are excellent in the right circuit.
There are quite a few types of Mullards, this is a situation where the most expensive are the best. MC1 (nearly extinct)  and the longplate square getter.






@2psyop 
I have always wanted to try Mullards...and Telefunkens
Assuming you mean 12AX7/ECC83 tubes, Mullard are warm and even a little dull compared to the transparent and detailed Teles.
Just signal tubes or rectifier tubes also? I like my Taylor brand 866a Mercury rectifier tubes and the next best sounding rectifier is the RCA 1616 made for the US navy.
c’mon folks

a question like this is ridiculous

no discussion of application, circuit, component, system, sonic traits desired (not to mention asking between a 12bh7 miniature and a 6sn7 octal)

i like merlot you like cold brew... what is better?