• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

New tube amp, looking to tube roll

C

Cambo5150

Active Member
Hello. I’m breaking in my new Cayin CS-55A integrated tube amplifier. It came with Cayin branded Psvane tubes. EL34 power tubes. 12ax7’s in the driver stage and 12au7’s in the gain stage. I ordered Gold Lion KT88’s as the amp accepts KT88’s as well. I’ve yet to use those as the EL34’s are still breaking in. I realize the sound signature will continue to change as they break in. But I know I’ll want to swap the 12au7’s in the gain stage at some point. I tend to like the highs a bit rolled off. I find most things too bright. Wondering if there’s a 12au7 out there that’s detailed with good base that’s not too foward or too bright. I was considering new production Mullards. If you guys have any suggestions I’d appreciate your input. Thanks.
 

Attachments

  • IMG_8391.jpeg
    IMG_8391.jpeg
    162.4 KB · Views: 32
Register to hide this ad
I don't find JJ 12AU7's to be bright in any amp I put them in. Not like RCA clear tops.
Maybe try an old stock 12BH7 instead? You would need to know if the heater winding in your power transformer is rated for enough current to use 12BH7's though. If the amp was optimized to use EL-34's, 6CA7's, and
KT-77's, the KT-88's may not be the best match.
I found this to be true with my VTA ST-70. It did fine with the EL-34 types I tried, but KT-88's didn't sound quite right. They had better bottom end, but seems to lack something in the midrange.
Your millage may vary though.
 
Your speakers look like Wharfedale Linton Heritage, I have the same pair and I really like them! One of the best pair of speakers I have owned.
 
BmWr75 said:
Unless somebody has the exact same amp as yours, it is most likely just a guess what different tubes will sound like. Tube sound is very much circuit dependant.
Click to expand...
I agree. Just tying to find out what I can because buying lots of tubes can add up. $$$
 
Lavane said:
I don't find JJ 12AU7's to be bright in any amp I put them in. Not like RCA clear tops.
Maybe try an old stock 12BH7 instead? You would need to know if the heater winding in your power transformer is rated for enough current to use 12BH7's though. If the amp was optimized to use EL-34's, 6CA7's, and
KT-77's, the KT-88's may not be the best match.
I found this to be true with my VTA ST-70. It did fine with the EL-34 types I tried, but KT-88's didn't sound quite right. They had better bottom end, but seems to lack something in the midrange.
Your millage may vary though.
Click to expand...
I might try some JJ’s. They are pretty cheap.
 
I find the Gold Lion B749/B759 tubes to be the best 12AU7/12AX7 tubes out there. Smooth sound and great soundstage, far better than any Chinese tubes. They even outprformed the regarded Apos Ray 12AU7 tubes.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom