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Alternate Power Tubes for a Cary V12R

Howdy - I've got a Cary V12R that takes dozen EL34 tubes. The tubes are getting a little tired and I'm thinking about replacing them. I like the way the amp sounds, but I'm always looking for a little extra - a bit more extension in the treble and tighter bass. the Cary manual states that the amp can run on 6L6, 6V6, KT-66, KT-88, KT-90, KT-99, 6550C, and of course EL34. I'd like to retain some of the EL34 mids if possible. I'm trying to keep it to a dull roar, maybe $50-$60 per pair. Does anyone have any experience rolling tubes in this amp, what are you using, and what do you recommend? Thanks!
grimace
grimace OP
624 posts
 
Vintage tubes aren't really practical for an amplifier that takes an even dozen. Even if you could get a matched set, they cost a fortune. The small signal tubes are easy enough, but not the power tubes.
rlawry
477 posts
 
That just depends on how much money you are willing to spend. I thought that buying many NOS tubes was completely practical to me because I was looking for the best sound. Perhaps you feel differently. Your call. I have seen 8417 tubes in your price range at dealers and online auctions.
grimace OP
624 posts
 
I have never seen anyone with a dozen of anything in an online auction. How many dozen would you have to buy to actually get a matched dozen? Not practical.
rlawry
477 posts
 
OK, I give up. If you keep dismissing ideas out of hand you will probably get fewer responses. Sheez.
polk432
1,142 posts
 
If the vintage tubes (matched) are over 4K just sell the V12R and get the CAD120's or monoblocks.
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