Hi Outlier; I have faced this question with a SF Line 2. I like the stock 6922 Sovteks pretty well, but the Valvos (from SF) are smoother, sweeter, a bit warmer and more tube-like. I tried an exotic set of tubes from Upscale Audio in LA: Amperex 7308s in the forward positions, but got a really un-natural, big, bloomy, soundstage that I didn't like. Still, I'd recommend Kevin Deal at Upscale as an expert on SF tube equipment. He's at www.upscaleaudio.com Just explain to him what kind of sound you want. Good Luck. Craig.
Tube Replacements for SF Line 3?
I recently bought a used Sonic Frontiers Line 3 and am really enjoying the sound. I'm now wondering what tube upgrades (if any) I should consider for the preamp. Also, having not used any tube-based unit before, how long can I expect the tubes to last and should I consider keeping replacements on hand in the eventual event of some of the tubes failing? Finally, is it OK for me to keep powering up and powering down the preamp every day, or do I really have to leave it on stand-by. (I have the unit hooked up to my PS Audio 300 powerplant, which I really like to turn off when I'm not around because it seems to double as a home heating system.) Thanks in advance for any advice on what may be stupid questions :-)
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