2. amps-preamps
  3. 123463-1475

6sn7 or 6sl7

I have an Almarro A318-B and would like to swap out one of the preamp tubes, but I cannot decide which one would have the greatest affect on the sound. The Almarro uses a 6sl7 as the input tube and the 6sn7 as an "anode follower" (I'm not sure what that is?). I can only afford to do one now, so hence my dilemma. I have three different 6sn7's at the moment with the following characteristics: RCA 6SN7-GTB that has a detailed but lush presentation; Electro-Harmonix that has a very detailed and airy sound, but is a little flat and edgy, and last is the stock Russian 6H8C that images very well but has limited frequency extension. I have only used the stock Russian 6sl7 (6H9C) with all of these because that is the only one I have. 

Any insight would be much appreciated. 

Thanks!! 
enobenetto

Showing 1 response by davidpritchard

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davidpritchard
866 posts
 
enobenetto:

You have now been given a year's worth of the best tube options for your amplifier. I have been there and done that. Before buying even more tubes, I suggest upgrading the fuse in the Almarro amplifier to a Synergistic Black fuse or if on a limited budget the Synergistic Research SR-20 fuse.

I think the sonic improvement with a fuse upgrade will be greater than any additional tubes you currently own. Hopefully there is a Synergistic Research dealer in your country that provides the Synergistic Research 30 day trial policy.

Congratulations on owning a nice sounding amplifier.

David Pritchard
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