KT90 experience?


I've heard that the KT90 tube delivers more power than the KT88...anyone have any experience with this substitution? I've read the other postings and it sounds like I can expect more of a "solid state" sound...specifically, I'm looking at the new EH KT90 tube (I'm using their KT88 now with good results, but feel that my speakers could use a little more punch). Any responses appreciated.
jfacker

Showing 1 response by audiofankj

I have used EI KT-90 Type III tubes many times as well as Svetlana & Sovtek KT-88's and both of their 6550's...

The Ei KT-90 type iii (make sure to get the type 3 - the earlier versions were more 'zippy') will produce more power than a KT-88. The bass will be better controlled and overall it will be a more linear tube. In my situation with a few different amps, it took my KT-90s about 400 hours of play time before they had the "effortless" presentation to them... they sound decent at first, but there is a bit of "strain" or congestion until they do burn in a bit. I can not explain why this seems to be. It was advised I log the hours on the new tubes years ago upon insertion and that is what I found, as well as two times since then. I don't personally find the KT-90 to be "solid state" at all after the 400 or so hours of break in. The midrange is liquid and harmonics and timbre are natural.

I do love the midrange presentation I have heard with NOS Genalex KT88 as well as the Svetlana's... however in my instances, the bass was not controlled the way I would like it to be.

Good luck on your journey. This is the joy of tubes... you will prefer one or the other!