Conrad Johnson Premier 15 Tube Suggestions

[miles]

10 Audio Review

Conrad Johnson Premier 15 Series 2
http://www.10audio.com/cj_prem15-2.htm

In the 2nd last paragraph, the reviewer talks about replacing the stock tubes with cryo-treated EI "Silver Bullet" 12AX7s and cryo-treated Mullard 6GK5s.

[Myles B. Astor]

Originally Posted by Marco1

Thanks again everyone.

Myles, I saw the Tube Depot ad. Just never bought from them. I'm familiar with the EI ECC83's, but not in the Premier 15. From what I remember, they may be a little dry to my tastes on vocals, which I listen to a lot. What do you think?

Joe, this is for MM but hopefully in the not too distant future, I'll finally breakdown and buy the Koetsu I've been lusting after for a couple of years. So I'm trying to plan ahead also. In either case, for phono sections I prefer the ultra low noise valve, when money permits. Been awhile since I talked to Andy so maybe I'll give him a call to see what he has available, whether EI or something else.

Right now I think I'm leaning in the direction of GE. Upscale has some listed at not too absurd prices. Ray, sounds like something similar to what you may have had. They also have Tungsram's which kind of intrigue me. Good reviews too. Anyone tried them? Sounds like they would mate nicely with the Tele's in my Premier 16. I am concerned however with reliability.

Anyhow, all three tubes are not that far apart price wise so maybe it's just time to jump in and try something different .

Regards, Mark

I wouldn't call the Eis that I heard dry; more like rich, soft on top and big and a little fuzzier on the bottom (for the good ones anyway). I did get some others off of Agon and they had zero bass (guess that's the reason the person sold them).

CJ used to use the Tungsrams back in the days of the Premier 3 and I don't remember anything good to be said about the tubes. I'd stay away from them.

[Marco1]

Thanks to both of you. Right now I'm playing around with a few Bugle Boys and (5751) GE's that I had laying around just to remind me of the "flavors' they impart in the 15. I do like the dynamics and extension of the GE's, but I'm looking for some EI's to try as well. More to come.

Regards, Mark