EL-34, KT-88, 6P3P: What's the Bloody Difference?


I am about to purchase my first (budget) tube integrated amplifier.

Now, I will not be able to audition any of these.

Here they are:

Prima Luna Prologue One: 35 watts; EL-34 output tubes
Prima Luna Prologue Two: 40 watts; KT-88 output tubes
Jolida 202A: 40 watts; EL-34 output tubes
Jolida 707; 40 watts; 6P3P
ASL AQ1003DT; 30 watts; EL-34 output tubes

Notice three different types of output tubes are used:

EL-34
KT-88
6P3P

What's the sonic difference between these types of tubes? Why choose one type of output tube over another?

Many thanks for any guidance you can give me on this!

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Showing 1 response by bradf

You can use a variety of tubes in both the Prologue PL1 and the Prologue PL2. Below is a list that is outlined in the PL2 Owners Manual.
I also believe you can use the KT 120, but I would confirm that with Kevin or Jarred at Upscale Audio.
Should you be interested, here’s a link to the PL1 and PL2 Owners Manual. http://www.primaluna-usa.com/owners-manuals
12AX7: ECC83, ECC803S, E83CC, 7025, CV4004. You can also use a 5751, but please note that the 5751 is a lower gain tube than a 12AX7 and the sound will be altered. • 12AU7: ECC82, ECC802S, E82CC, 5814, 6189, CV4003 • KT-88: 6550, KT-90. You may also use EL-34, 6L6GC, 7581A and KT66 though power will drop slightly.

Just a suggestion, you may look at the Prologue 3 and 5 combo.
I think you can get them both on the used market for around $1,600.00 to
$2,000.00 pending condition, use, age, etc. A very good value and a significant step up in SQ from the PL1 and PL2. (based on personal ownership and use)