Lab12 Melto 2 - tube rolling

@billstevenson thank you for the music recommendation. I’ll give that album a listen. 

Sounds like you’re busy going through that vinyl collection :)

As to MM and Melto 2, in the stereophile review they were pretty thrilled with the sound of the 2M Black LBV with this phono stage. So I would assume they were able to dial that Ortofone cartridge in. It’s unlikely that Herb Reichert would listen without optimizing the setup. 

@audphile1 Just came across this thread. Thank you for starting it! Coincidentally I have a Melto 2 + VPI Prime with fatboy gimbal arm and Hana umami blue cartridge. Very similar to you. I haven’t tried tube rolling yet. So far what are your favorites? I listen to jazz also.

The latest Tone Poet, Dexter Calling, showed up yesterday.  Recorded in 1961, Dex was in good shape, Kenny Drew, piano; Paul Chambers, bass; Philly Joe Jones, drums.  Unusual for Tone Poet it is Stereo.  In my youth, I wanted to be a jazz drummer.  When this was made I was studying with George Stone in Boston, later attended Berkley and then went into the Navy Band.  The best day I ever lived, I couldn't turn pages for guys like Philly Joe, and he just kills it on this record.  It is good for me that I was smart enough to go to college and learn something I could do well. 

@pbecker128 nice! 
I was about to post an update on tubes. Long story slim, the Gold Lions are just OK, nothing special after they broke in. I would characterize them as slightly dry and solid state sounding, not much going on as far as tube magic in the mids. They’re quiet and neutral but dry and even slightly dull musically. 
I prefer the standard stock EH. Will probably sell the Lions. 
My favorite are the 1976 Siemens. Fantastic tube. Midrange bloom, clarity, texture and great soundstage. I yanked the GLs out yesterday and put back the Siemens. 
I also tried and liked the NOS Russian 6H23N EB and they’re very good. Better than the GL but slightly reserved up top. 
 

What gain and load settings are you using?

@billstevenson how is the sound quality on that Dexter LP? I’m looking to pick up a few new blue note records, some from the recommendations earlier in this thread