Preamp is the first stage of amplification and will have the most audible effect on sound. Start with the gain-stage tube.
Tube Rolling Cayin CS 55A
Having ventured into tube amplifiers, I also have Vincent pre / power hybrid and Naim Uniti Solid State, I have experimented with tube rolling. So far only replacing the stock KT 88's with Electro Harmonix EL 34's. My impressions are tabulated below. What are other peoples experiences. Do the pre amp tubes make much difference bacuse the power tube difference is day and night. I must say the tube amp, for me is greatly preferred over the others, with EL 34's most markedly.
|
Cayin CS 55A |
EL 34 Ultra |
EL 34 Triode |
KT 88 Ultra |
KT 88 Triode |
|
Soundstage |
10 |
9 |
8 |
7 |
|
Treble |
9 |
10 |
8 |
7 |
|
Bass |
8 |
10 |
9 |
7 |
|
Vocals |
10 |
9 |
8 |
7 |
|
Imaging |
9 |
10 |
8 |
7 |
|
Overall |
9 |
10 |
8 |
7 |