SLP-05 Making Its Way to Alaska!

[kiwi_1282001]

Hi Peter,

I should clarify, the sound change noticed by changing the rectifier tube was subtle compared to pre-amp tubes.

I have also read glowing reports about the use of Mullard 5AR4 and considered this when I changed out the stock SINO tube. What put me off was the pricing. I wasn't sure the price of admission was worth it. In theory, change in sound (if any) is subtle and possibly due to a drop in plate voltage, which changes the bias of your amp.

[pstrisik]

Originally Posted by kiwi_1282001

Hi Peter,

I should clarify, the sound change noticed by changing the rectifier tube was subtle compared to pre-amp tubes.

I have also read glowing reports about the use of Mullard 5AR4 and considered this when I changed out the stock SINO tube. What put me off was the pricing. I wasn't sure the price of admission was worth it. In theory, change in sound (if any) is subtle and possibly due to a drop in plate voltage, which changes the bias of your amp.

Thanks for the clarification. I think I can find a Mullard or variant pretty reasonable. Used tested new or blemished, etc., reduces the price considerably. Might be worth it for the trial. If it turns out worthwhile, next replacement could be a better one, but maybe not even necessary. I would get one of those and a decent current production tube and compare.

[pstrisik]

Hi Folks,

Here's my update...

Started with stock tubes, naturally. I was impressed right from the get go. More depth and image than with my previous C-J Premier 17LS (6922 based). I bought a Mullard rectifier, four NOS Sylvania 6SN7GTB "Chrome Domes" and four RCA VT231 grey glass tubes.

First put in the Mullard rectifier. I think it warmed it up a bit, but it is subtle enough to be expectation bias as well. I'm leaving it in. Too bad it is difficult to get to as I wouldn't mind switching back to compare.

Then tried the four RCA's in the gain sockets (1,2,4,5) keeping the stock tubes in 3 & 6. Too dark. Lost a lot of detail and everything sounded soft. Tried the four Sylvania's in the gain sockets with stock in 3/6. Much better! Clear, great depth and imaging, not harsh. Best sound yet. I tried two of the RCA's in 3/6 along with the Chrome Domes. Went back and forth with those two configurations and decided I liked the four Sylvania's with two RCA's. The RCA's smoothed things out more without noticibly losing detail.

I could stop there. But I didn't. Ordered more Sylvania's and I will try running with six Sylvania's tonight.

This is running into a pair of conrad-johnson 125M monos with KT120 power tubes and restored AR2ax speakers.

The Cary is a keeper!