Hagerman trumpet mc or Ear 834 classic phono pre amplifier.

What tube has the most influence to the sound that comes from the phono pre amplifier 12ax7 or 12au.

@bigmac1963

ax7’s generally effect tonality, gain, and noise….au7’s effect body, weight, and dynamics….that according to Jim Hagerman.

I cannot argue with that generally per my experience with the Trumpet.

This is the last piece to add to my system. I want to make sure that it is the right decision.These two phono stage are in my budget.

I've had the Trumpet twice (and sold it twice for financial reasons as expenses came up). If I ever have the financial freedom, I'll order another from Jim without a second thought. It's a beautifully transparent, revealing pre without being brittle or clinical. Conversely, it's not overly warm either. Like, @bkeske, I swapped out the tubes for the Telefunkens and Bugle Boys I preferred and they really contributed to making vinyl an immersive, beautiful experience. 

Hi all, how critical are the (4) 12ax7s to the tone of the Hagerman? I'm assuming the 12au7s are doing the heavy lifting tone wise but maybe I'm wrong? If I wanted to open up the sound, make it more transparent with more pronounced highs can I get any recommendations? I'm currently running '60s Raytheon 12au7s and a mix of NOS RCA/Teles in the 12ax7 slots (also do these need to be matched?) Thanks!