Tubes for Conrad Johnson Premier 11a ????

Buying the tubes directly from CJ? Mine came from their factory with pretty standard Svetlana 6550's and the smaller signal tubes were also readily available. I wonder if CJ does anything special with their replacement tubes for them to command a higher price?

CJ claims that they test their tubes very carefully and even burn some of them in a little.

The most popular here has been the Ei KT90 Type III. Assuming they are burned in properly, they will last forever...I mean I have never replaced a pair that ran low on emmissions.

But if you use the Svet 6550C or KT88 you will be doing just fine.

I tried KT88's in my CJ 12's. This is the first time I've seen a situation where I did not flat out prefer KT88 over 6550. The KT88 had a bit more power and more full sounding, but the CJ is already by nature full and sweet sounding. I think the 6550 had a bit more detail and nuance at least in my setup. It boils down to what are your other components and your personal taste. If I had very neutral speakers (e.g. Thiel) the KT88 would probably have been a revelation but my Spendors are already warm sounding, and so the 6550 proved to be a better match IMO.

Trying KT88 in the CJ is fun and whether or not you end up keeping them I don't think you'll regret trying it out.

Art

ps: CJ does not suggest using KT88 in the amp. I've spoken with them about it and they just seem to prefer the sound of 6550's with their gear. They don't indicate that KT88 would damage the amp, just that they have not optimized the amp for it.

I have been using Sed KT88's in my 12's.and i prefer the the better bass,and warmer sound.I just purchased some Golden Lion KT88s so far they seem to sound a bit more vibrant.Need more time to listen.