Changing Tubes in the MA 252?

[gabor]

Hello MAC experts.

As one who likes to tinker,I'm considering changing out the stock tubes on my MA252 integrated amp. it has a pair of 12AX7a tubes and two 12AT7 tubes

My questions are: would there be any advantage in terms of sound enhancement?

Would the color of the tubes after warm up remain green or another color?

Thanks!

Gabe

[Route 66]

It's not the tubes that are glowing green, it's the LEDs that are below them that you're seeing. New tubes would still appear green and then amber if driven into overload.

[Maks]

Tube rolling is quite popular and can be part of the appeal of tube gear. You can go from the Gold Lion reissues to crazy priced 1950s NOS tubes. The GLs are popular choices here, I'm not sure which OEM tubes Mc is using these days.

[Mamrak1]

I believe that McIntosh uses Russian (New Sensor) tubes in their equipment these days.

[gabor]

Originally Posted by Mamrak1

I believe that McIntosh uses Russian (New Sensor) tubes in their equipment these days.

According to sources in the internet it is claimed the tubes are USA made....is that the case?

Thanks

[gabor]

Originally Posted by gabor

According to sources in the internet it is claimed the tubes are USA made....is that the case?

Thanks

I guess I assumed that the stamp on the tubes "McIntosh USA" meant they were made here

[gabor]

Originally Posted by Mamrak1

I believe that McIntosh uses Russian (New Sensor) tubes in their equipment these days.

Thanks for the clarification.

The on line source I used obviously was wrong stating the tubes were of American origin.

I ordered some Gold Lions and will try them...

Gabor

[Route 66]

Originally Posted by gabor

Thanks for the clarification.

The on line source I used obviously was wrong stating the tubes were of American origin.

I ordered some Gold Lions and will try them...

Gabor

Please report back with your findings because I also have an MA252.

[gabor]

I have now critically listened to both the stock tube and the Genelex Gold Dragons.

Although not a huge improvement, I think the GDs do enhance the sound-definitely a bit warmer and the trebles are a bit crisper.

Seems to be more noticeable on classical music,particularly the strings, like the cello, violins etc..

It's great to be able to "mod" our equipment....

[Mamrak1]

First off, what "sources" are you referring to? Secondly, what company is producing tubes in the US?