12au7 tube?
Looking for a good 12au7 (JJ ecc802s currently). I know the Telefunken ECC802s is the holy grail, but it comes at a price that is just too steep for me to justify. Many will recommend Mullard, but I always find them a bit too "wooly", lacking in definition. They're going in a Mastersound 845 Compact.
What tubes would you recommend that fits between the clarity of the Telefunken (without the price...) and the Mullard? I don't mind spending a bit of money on a pair (let's say max $500 for the pair, prefer to be lower if at all possible).
Yeah, it can just be different, not better or worse. That's what Brent from Audio Tubes told me when I asked him about possible comparison in my amp between RCA black plates and Mullards, don't remember the exact model. And I decided not to get the Mullards since I liked the sound I had and didn't want it to be any warmer than it was. But someone else might've wanted exactly that, it would've been excellent sound too. But for 12AX7 in the preamp my Mullards go nowhere. |
All, Trust is a rare commodity in this hobby. Being new to tube gear, I really appreciate all of the experiences, insight and recommendations. Also, FYI - I contacted the folks at premiumvaccumtubes.com. Their business model is 'don't call us and we won't call you'. That's correct. They will only communicate via email or chatbox. Hard to say if they are ethical, but I know I will shop elsewhere - the other vendors are happy to discuss their products, and that rapport creates trust (and, thus sales). |
@audition__audio @lowtubes. Thank you both. It was my understanding too that all three were an arm of Amperex/Philips. The reason I asked who made what for who is I remember reading (can’t remember where) that Mazda did not manufacturer tubes…they were a rebrander only. In any case they all do sound different. I have all three varients of 12au7’s and have enjoyed them all over the years depending on the component they’re placed in, system matching, my mood, etc. |
You have a nice system. I use telefunkens and hope they will last a really long time. When I read your first comment it seems like you're being kind of cheap. Why are you limiting your purse string in this area.?? I don't like trying out different types of tubes I just settled for something that I knew would be exceptional purchased from Jesse. |
@lowtubes there comes a time where tube life may actually exceed one’s own. Maybe a gruesome thought to some, but may as well face reality, lol. With the number of tubes I’ve collected over the years, I’ve decided to try listening to them rather than just collecting ‘em. Kinda like money…can’t take it with ya.😵💫 |
