You'll get warmth and some good detail from the RCA blackplates. They need more burn-in, in fact the entire amp needs burnin time if new. A bright sound with a lack of low-end often means it needs to be run-in. You may also find the JJ's aren't for you, but give them some more time.
Octave Audio V70SE tube recommendations
Hey there!
just recently jumped into the vacuum tube gear. Purchased a V70SE, Looking to start tube rolling, and wondering any of you octave owners can provide some recommendations for tube replacement. I currently have stock (4) JJ 6550 output tubes, and just installed drivers tubes w/ (1) RCA 12ax7 1950’s black plates and (2) RCA 12 au7 old stocked matched. Current system sounds a little bright or tinny. Perhaps tubes need more time to break in? (About 20hr so far), or I need to replace the output tubes. currently have dynaudio heritage specials, Linn LP 12 and DSM for streaming. looking for a little warmth and a bit more bass ( would like to avoid a subwoofer), w/o losing detail. Mostly stream when playing background music, then switch to vinyl for serious listening. Any guidance would be appreciated.
Best
JSing
7 responses Add your response
Congrats, great amp. I agree with lowrider on burn-in. I started with the V40se went up the ladder and now have the V70 Class A. Your heritage specials could benefit from the Octave Super Black Box which improves bass response and grip. I personally am not a fan of JJ’s. In terms of warmth look to Mullard or Amperex. Either way you have a fantastic match with the Octave/Dyna. |
Some good advice here from @tpreaves @lowrider57
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Thanks for the input. I purchased the octave about 7 months ago. Probably have about listening 300-400 hrs on the stock tubes, and 20-30 hrs on the new input tubes. But, seems like the consensus is, I need to burn in the new, input tubes longer, Before changing out the output and/ or exploring the super black box option. Again, thank you all !
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So, the output tubes are fully burned in. I believe the input tube in the gain stage (12AX7) has the most influence on sonics followed by the drivers/phase inverters. If these were true NOS tubes, which are a rarity these days, they might take 50-60 hrs for burn-in. You're at a point that you should be hearing the sound settling in. I've used the black plates for years, the highs should become smoother and less sharp (there will still be some detail up top), but it shouldn't sound harsh. The soundstage should be opening up and the bass will become deeper. FYI, all amp designs are different and a certain tube type can have a different presentation in that circuit. These are some of the sonic attributes you should start noticing. |