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VAC Pre-amp to roll or not to tube roll...

I've been running my VAC Sig MK IIa for about 10 years, I'd estimate 11k--12k hour (yeah I do play it a bit).  While I have had to replace the line stage 6DJ8's, one when craze microphonic, the original 12AX7's are still working.  I still have a new set of stock Chinese no-name 12AX&'s from VAC I bought when I bought the pre-amp but of course I have been wondering "What-IF I tried a different set of tubes..."

Any suggestions, inputs?  Gold Lion, Mullard, or stick with the no-names?

 

 

qs135
kmmd's avatar
kmmd
84 posts
 

Yes they are special and worth every penny IMO.  The red tipped 12AX7’s from Brent are $575 a pair.

hbarrel's avatar
hbarrel
554 posts
 

In my VAC MkVI Renaissance the OEM Electro Harmonix tubes got replaced with 6922 Refector’s. The resulting sound was more pleasing to my ears.  

wrm57
1,101 posts
 

In my Phi Beta, predecessor to the Sig IIa, I much prefer the 8416 to any of the many 6922 types I’ve rolled. For the phono, my favs are actually Sovtek 12ax7LPS,  the only Sovtek tube I’ve ever liked. They are balanced throughout the spectrum. Trick is finding low noise examples. I’ve tried many NOS, including the medical Amperex, but prefer these.

sbank's avatar
sbank
3,402 posts
 

In my VAC Ren V, I have enjoyed Mullard (Blackburn) ECC88 O getters from mid 60s in the line stage side. For 12AX7s in the phono stage,  I've been sticking with the Amperex Orange Globes that the prior owner upgraded to. I may try Telefunkens at some point.

FWiW, Brent Jessie's descriptions are spot on! Cheers,

Spencer

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