2. amps-preamps
  3. 1285350105

tube choice for Audible Illusions L1

I have a Audible Illusions L1, and it has humming noise on the left channel. I suspect it is the tube. Also, I would like to smooth the sound a bit more. The recommended and current tube I have is 6h23neb. However, I have someone previously recommends Svetlana 6n1p. I would like to try it out, but it says on the AI FAQ that "6NIP tubes should not be substituted as they require additional filament current and their use will compromise performance."
What does compromise performance means? Does it mean the tube life will decrease? But it won't do any damage on the unit, am I correct?

Also, from the tube store, I can't specify the brand. Is it important to order a specific brand?

Besides the 6h23neb and 6n1p, is there other suggestion that will help smooth out the sound, or make it less harsh?

Thanks.
gte357s

Showing 4 responses by dekay

dekay's avatar
dekay
5,351 posts
 
You could try older 6h23eb (the ones with the rocket logo) if they are still around. They are a bit softer sounding than the ones made @ Refektor (sp).

I used Siemens 7dj8 in the phono section of a Mod 3a, but never tried them in the line section. Maybe someone here has?

The 7dj8 was durable in the application and had a nice smooth/liquid sound (akin to old production Mullard and Amperex 6dj8's).
dekay's avatar
dekay
5,351 posts
 
Tomcy6:

The Siemens 7dj8's were still going strong in my friends Mod 3A four years after we put them in the phono section.

Philips (euro) 7dj8's are $50 each @ Upscale and per their ad copy they are fine for use in the AI 3.
dekay's avatar
dekay
5,351 posts
 
Only tried 7dj8's in the phono section (1983 Reflektor 6h23's were used in the line stage).

The phono was more open/liquid sounding with 7dj8's VS 6h23's.

Someone in the forums suggested this combo/placement.

Try searching here and @ audioasylum to see if anyone is using 7dj8's in an L1, or in the line section of a 3 or 3A.

If so, I would go with the Euro Philips @ Upscale as the price is OK and they are smoother sounding than Siemens, and Tunsram.

I tried Telefunken 7dj8 as well, but suspect they were not good examples of the tube.
dekay's avatar
dekay
5,351 posts
 
PS: Experimenting with the internal switches and popping in new EH tubes may do the trick. I'd wait and see.
More to discover