Short version. Output KT88s are more detailed and more powerful. EL34s are warmer and more euphoric especially the midrange. My amp is not bass shy with EL34s due to massive iron, I believe. I do not doubt as the previous poster stated different tube manufacturer's output tubes will sound different among the variants. My experience is limited to Ruby KT88s and Sveltalna, JJs and EH EL 34s. Personally I like the EL34s better in general in my amp which will take either and I listen to more jazz than anything else. If I listened to mostly classical or rock I might opt more for the KT88s. On the driver tube front, I believe the manufacturer absolutely has more to do with sound differences than do tube type. Of course, YMMV.
Your thoughts on these different tubes?..
I had tubes in the past from VAC, BAT, CJ and others...but have been in the world of solid state as of late.
Thinking about doing a modest system based on a tube integrated and would appreciate hearing your experience with the following tubes:
Output tubes: KT88 vs 6550C vs EL34 vs KT90
Input/Driver tubes:6922 vs. 12AU7 vs. 12AX7 vs. 6SN7
Thanks for any input...and have good holidays..
Thinking about doing a modest system based on a tube integrated and would appreciate hearing your experience with the following tubes:
Output tubes: KT88 vs 6550C vs EL34 vs KT90
Input/Driver tubes:6922 vs. 12AU7 vs. 12AX7 vs. 6SN7
Thanks for any input...and have good holidays..