2. amps-preamps
  3. 1285350105

tube choice for Audible Illusions L1

I have a Audible Illusions L1, and it has humming noise on the left channel. I suspect it is the tube. Also, I would like to smooth the sound a bit more. The recommended and current tube I have is 6h23neb. However, I have someone previously recommends Svetlana 6n1p. I would like to try it out, but it says on the AI FAQ that "6NIP tubes should not be substituted as they require additional filament current and their use will compromise performance."
What does compromise performance means? Does it mean the tube life will decrease? But it won't do any damage on the unit, am I correct?

Also, from the tube store, I can't specify the brand. Is it important to order a specific brand?

Besides the 6h23neb and 6n1p, is there other suggestion that will help smooth out the sound, or make it less harsh?

Thanks.
gte357s

Showing 1 response by jebe1

jebe1
75 posts
 
GTE357s,

Try using the "Aux" input and see if you can hear a difference. I think the other inputs have a series resistor in the signal path.

You might also want to try "Main Out #2" which has a 470 ohm resistor in series. To quote the manual "This corrects for anomalies i.e., tube "glare" that are exhibited in some brands of tubes. If you are running a long length (over 15 feet) of interconnect, it is best to use Main Out #1"

I use the "Aux" input for CDs, "Main Out #1", and the capacitor DIP switches are set to OFF.

I currently have a pair of 6H23P-EB tubes that Upscale Audio calls "Type 3" that sound really nice. I've also used a pair of Matsushita 6DJ8 that sounded pretty good that I bought from Andy at Vintage Tube Services.

Of course, what you are hearing might be a system matching issue.
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