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How much does tube brand REALLY affect sound in terms of rectifier tubes?

Just wondering if anyone has opinions on how much it really matters as far as sonic signature when it comes to the type of rectifier tubes you are using. There doesn't seem to be a lot of comparison info out there.

I haven't done any tube rolling yet, and was looking for advice before I start.

I have a preamp using one GZ34/5AR4, and a pair of monoblocks using one each of these same tubes.

The preamp came with a NOS Amperex Bugle Boy, and the monblocks came with new production JJ's in them.

I'm really enjoying the sound with the setup I have now, and if rectifier tubes are not going to change the sound much either way, then I will play with some other tubes instead.

hossfly10
ebm
5,165 posts
 
Very important get the best sounding one ASAP!!
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geoffkait's avatar
geoffkait
14,147 posts
 
In my Woo Audio all tube class A headphone amp a WWII vintage NOS Tung Sol rectifier tube was noticeably better than whatever rectifier tube came with the unit. That was after I changed out the stock output tubes for 1952 Sylvania 6SN7GT Badboys.
aolmrd1241
759 posts
 
As rodman99999 replied, the  Philips 5R4GYS is a wonderful sounding tube and I do have a pair that I switch out on occasion[in my pre] with the Brimar military CV717/5R4GY. The Brimars sound more open and organic than the Phillips but not as detailed in the highs, with a huge sound-space and crazy good dynamics. They can be hard to find and a bit pricey... but worth the price in my opinion.
brf
1,699 posts
 
The tube rectifier's job is to convert AC into DC.  If the load is greater than the DC supply, this will cause a voltage sag which results in a compressed sound.  My question is, if the pre or amplifier's rectifier is properly designed to avoid voltage sags, will changing the tube rectifier to a different brand, not type, affect the sound? 
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