2. amps-preamps
  3. 129043-3520

Tube Life Artifacts

I've been using the same tubes for almost 12 years. They are RCA EL84s (6bq5) in 1959 Leak TL12 plus monoblocks. Recently, I have noticed that one channel seems to be "deeper" in soundstage, almost like there was more reverb on that channel. It's a mild difference, more noticeable on some recordings than others. This difference is consistent with both vinyl and CD, and switched sides when I switched the speaker connections.

Is this evidence of tube deterioration? I have a set of unused Philips tubes somewhere in the basement (made by Mullard, I believe) and I'm about to switch them. If I can find them...
dragunski
dragunski OP
110 posts
 
I tend to "roll" signal tubes and preamp tubes more than the power tubes. This has made larger differences in my mind. But once I've got it sounding good, across different sources, I don’t want to mess with it.

In any case, just shifting the tubes around and cleaning connectors seems to have solved the problem. But I'm going to find those damn Philips tubes in the basement. It's bugging the hell out of me.
mechans
2,999 posts
 
You really should get those Mullards or whatever Philips brand you have hidden in your basement.  The Mullards are really good sounding if you like a warmish signature.   In addition  true NOS command serious money these days.
dragunski OP
110 posts
 
They are Philips brand tubes. The seller told me they were made by Mullard, but he was Chinese and I may have misunderstood. The amps were recapped in the 80s and may need it again, but for now, they seem to be working well. There's a little hissing when they power up, but it goes away pretty quick.

Yes, tomorrow I will dig around again in the basement. I'll be mad if I don't have them anymore. I found all sorts of cool stuff down there including reel and Elcaset tapes, so I think I'm getting close.

dragunski OP
110 posts
 
Ok, I found those NOS Philips and swapped them in. Maybe a slightly better treble, as the cymbals are louder and seem to fade slower.

But the RCAs are back in. They have much better bass and mids. More balanced across the whole spectrum. I don't hear a difference in width or height. 

My girlfriend doesn't hear any difference, even though she's got better ears. She thinks I'm crazy.
facten
931 posts
 
Might want to let the Phillips breakin some before jumping to conclusion
More to discover