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VTL's and KT88's?

Howdy! Does anyone have any experience using KT88's in their VTL amps? Specifically, I have a pair of MB450 Signature (pre Series II version). The best current KT88 (Gold Lion) is reputed to provide better sound quality than the best current 6550C and I'm tempted to try them. At $900 for the two octets, I'd like to hear from anyone who's used KT88's in their VTL's before I take the plunge.

Thanks!
kbarham
harrylavo's avatar
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harrylavo
341 posts
 
I've got Gold Lion KT-88's in my ST-150 and I hear exactly what vegasears hears....superb.  Except with my Thiel 3.5's, the ST-150 even in triode mode handles the bass better than either the ST-85 or ARC D90b that I've used previously.  Not quite as defined as a transistor amp, completely realistic to the real thing.
johnss
564 posts
 
The best sounding KT88 is the Shuguang WE-KT88 plus red base tubes.  They are 3 dimensional have tonal qualities in spades, but they will not stand up to the high plate voltages on the MB-450, or other VTL amps.
If you try a Chinese KT88, you will get flash over and early tube failures. So stick with the gold lion KT-88s, or if you want a touch warmer sound, try the Electro Harmonix KT88.
vegasears
1,173 posts
 
@johnss  That's exactly how the Shuguang K-88 performed for me back in 2009.  I only use GL KT-88's in my VTL 450MKII amps.  Thanks for the comments on the Electro Harmonix KT88's. It may be time for a change.
johnss
564 posts
 
@vegasears , thanks! also don't forget or overlook those 12AT7 inputs, they affect the sound too. Try a pair of PSVANE art series or the T-II series if you want more detail. If you want a warmer sound, the Shuguang treasure series will fit the bill.

listening99
172 posts
 
Where are you all sourcing your Shuguang WE-KT88 plus tubes? 

Thank you.
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