2. amps-preamps
  3. 153810-1112

Basic EL34 and 6sn7 tube recommendation.

I have a Mystere IA-11 tube integrated amp from sister company PrimaLuna. I bought it preowned and like-new 1.3 yrs ago and enjoy it immensely. It is outfitted with Electro Harmonix EL34 and 6sn7 tubes. (Upscale Audio is the US distributor of Mystere and PrimaLuna and also an EH supplier.)

Everything is fine currently, so I enquiring if I should replace with the same EH tubes when it's time, or should I use another moderately priced brand. I have no inclination to compare and roll tubes looking for the best match. Just looking for a good solid recommendation to plug and play.

On another related issue, my amp has Primaluna's auto-bias circuitry that automatically adjusts the tube bias, so how will I know when tubes are at the point of needing replacement, unless they are burned out completely. Thanks.
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Showing 1 response by lowrider57

lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,393 posts
 
Another GL KT-77 fan here. They're not cheap, $49.99 each, but they're a huge upgrade over EL34 and Upscale does a good job testing them.

If you're not willing to tube roll some 6SN7's, then you'll never know how good your amp can sound. You should at least roll the preamp tubes; they make a significant contribution to the sound signature.

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