Wu,
I don't question your findings in any way, we can only report what we hear.
The EML XLS and mesh were a complete joy in my system. Your system is very interesting and must sound exceptionally good. Did you move from Soulution/Dartzeel to SET? If so what's different and would you go back?
Charles, |
Wu and Joe,
Where did you get the Tong Sol 5u4g rectifiers, I'd like to try them.
Thanks, |
Charles,
Yes I think my current system is producing a sound I like. I have owned various speakers just like everybody else here, and solution/dartzeel shine with some speakers, but not with voxativ (according to both many reviewers and the manufacturer). This was my first SET and I am much more than happy with the match. I still miss the ultra fast speed of s oulution and the near perfect combination of musicality and power of dartzeel , but I would not go back to them as long as keeping the voxativ.
You can always ask Dave in Arizona Tube Supply in eBaynregarding the tungsol. I recently bought matched nos pair from him.
Best regards,
Wu |
Charles,
I bought my Tung-Sol 5u4gb's from Andy at Vintage Tube Services. He is very good and stands behind his tubes.
I don't think the Franks can use 5u4g's
Joe |
Joe,
I've used Andy before and he was fine I'll give him a call. I was under the
impression that the franks could use 5u4g or 5u4gb, I'll check that out.
TheSylvania 5931 sseems interesting as well.
Thanks,
Charles, |
Wu,
You have an exceptional and unique system, you should consider postlng it in the virtual systems with pictures.
Charles |
Charlie
As Joe said, I think you should have 5u4gb not 5u4g. One time I asked to Coincident whether I can use 274b tube in the 5u4g slot. His answer was like this: i do not recommend it since its voltage rating is less than a 5U4 Gb and the power supply of the Franks is very large."
Haha yes...probably I will consider the virtual system as you recommended.
Charlie/Joe
Have you ever heard anything good/bad about Audio Horizon's tube?
Best regards,
Wu |
I just received my Takatsuki TA-300b tubes. They sound very nice right out of the box. How many hours before they really shine?
I also bought the star sound tech. apprentice stands. They added clarity and good separation especially in the treble, but I lost some tonal density. They did improve after a week, but I'll give Robert a call. I think you can adjust the sound loosening or tightening the cones. |
Sonpro, my good friend just bought the TA-300B tubes. They sounded good out of the box, but took 150 hours before they sounded incredible. You are in for a treat. |
Hi Joe,
Congratulations! I have owned the Takatsuki-TAs for 2 years and loved
them immediately with my first listening encounter. I'd agree with Brf in
that by 120-150 hours they'll be fully burned in. You can genuinely enjoy
them during this process, as the sound just continues to mature and
improve. I happily rotate these Japanese gems with my EML XLS and AVVT
32b tubes. The Frankenstein MK II sings with all three of them.
Joe a subtle adjustment with your Apprentice stands may be
advantageous. In my system they increased transparency, clarity and
openness yet tone and body remained full and harmonically rich. Biggest
impact occurred with the speakers.
Charles, |
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Thanks for the reply, guys! Looking forward to break-in.
Best,
Joe |
Snopro, the location of the Star Sound Audio Points under the component can make a great difference. If possible get one directly under the ac transformer. |
Tbg, I do have the 2 back audio points where the transformers sit. |
Snopro, don't think you need to put them in the corners. |
My listening levels are around 75 to 95db. Hi Snopro, Charles1Dad said to consult you on the FW J2 amp vs. a 300B power amp or mono blocks (in my price range) to drive >95db speakers at low to moderate levels. There’s a great discussion on Pass amps like the XA30.5 and 30.8 here https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/pass-labs-amps-and-avantgarde-speakers And please see my post there for more details about my room and listening situation. My two way speakers plus powered subs use Azura 425 horns and GPA Altec 416 midwoofers, and are at least 95db.
If you no longer have the J2 perhaps you still recall what’s its sonic characteristics were like versus a good 300B SET amp. Thanks.
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Hi ajant,
I sent you a PM did you receive it. |
I think that Dracula amplifier would sound much better.
|
Joe,
I'm glad you were able to provide ajant what I know is valuable and thoughtful perspective.
Charles, |
Charles,
Hopefully, that's what these sites are all about my friend. To help each other with honest and valued insight.
I know I get that from you and others, but we should always try to listen for ourselves, if at all possible. |
Hello Joe, you've described the wonderful pairing of the Frankenstein and Eufrodites. Do plan to keep both your F.W.J2 and the Pass XA30.8 ?
Charles, |
|
Charles, I traded in the J2 for the XA-30.8
Best,
Joe |
Oh I see, I imagine both of them sound quite well with your Hornings.
Charles, |
Hey folks, I am coming to this game late (better late than never!), but I have recently joined the ranks of you Frankenstein mkII owners. I am running them with my Omega Super Alnico HO monitors, which are rated at 97 db, playing in a rather large room (25' wide x open in back, x vaulted ceiling that peaks around 12'). At 8wpc, wow, they sure play loud enough, and I like peaks in the low 90 db range!
Anyways, lots of good info contained here. I am looking for any updates / recommendations on the rectifier tubes that are being used with these amps, with either the EML 300bXLS and Shuguang Black Treasure 300bs, which I have. I like the RCA black plate 6EM7 over the GE gray plate 6EM7s that came with the amp. I have tried the Mullard GZ37 with the EML, but that seemed like a bit too much, and too edgy for me. Now using Sylvania black plate 5U4GBs, and the sound is smoother.
What others work "best" with the EML or BT? |
Hi 1markr,
Congratulations on being a Frank owner. They are wonderful amps. Like you said they really sound big and powerful for an 8 watt amp, don't they.
IMS, The Mullard GZ37 weren't edgy at all.
They have the nicest midrange and if anything they are a little rolled off in the treble compared to my Tungsol 5u4gb and Sylvania 5931.
I also changed the coupling caps to Jupiter copper foil, so maybe the difference of opinion.
I really like the Takatsuki TA-300b tubes the best in the Franks, but they are very expensive.
Enjoy the amps they are excellent!
Joe |
Well this just goes to show that people do hear things differently and outcomes can be system and people specific. I use the Mullard GZ 37 which replaced the stock RCA rectifier tube. The Mullard has been simply excellent in my opinion.
I have owned my Frankenstein MK II for 8 years and appreciate them more than ever. Superb amplifiers with appropriate speakers.
Charles |
Hi Joe,
I'm curious, how often do you switch between the Pass Labs and Frankenstein driving your Hornings? I have no doubt that the sound quality of your system is fantastic and very natural.
Charles |
Thanks for the feedback on the Mullard GZ37 guys... maybe I need to be patient with them, since the EMLs and the Mullards are relatively new with few hours on them, they have to "burn-in" properly. Any thoughts on how many hours it may take them to reach their full sonic glory?
@snopro , I am a huge fan of the Jupiter caps, and have already used them in at least 4 or 5 of my previously / current owned gear. Trust me, it's on my mind now for the Franks! I want to get used to the Franks for now before putting in the caps, but yes, that is a goal!
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1markr,
For further clarification I also have the Jupiter copper foil capacitors in my Frankenstein rather than the stock Solens capacitors in the first stage coupling cap position. The 2nd stage is interstage transformer coupled. The difference between the two capacitors isn’t "hugh" but is rather noticeable and a worthwhile upgrade in my opinion.
Regarding the Mullard GZ 37 I’d say that 40 to 50 hours was sufficient. However keep in mind that you may just like another tube more than you do the Mullard . This is all so subjective when all is said and done.
Charles |
@charles1dad , I absolutely agree with you Charles, on all counts. Thx!
Mark
|
Hi Charles,
Actually I just put the Pass XA-30.8 in about a month ago and I'm really enjoying it too!
I like the Franks for their organic naturalness, texture and openness.
The Pass comes pretty close and is impressive for a SS amp, but isn't quite there. It has other qualities where it shines like a wider and maybe deeper soundstage. Goes deeper in the bass, it really takes control of those 16 woofers. It's really smooth and dynamic with a fuller upper bass to lower midrange. I like it better then the First Watt J2 that I use to have.
It also has very good separation and nice layering.
Which do I like better, that's a hard one to answer.
For Jazz and Vocals the SET for harder hitting music the 30.8
No hard decision. I'll keep them both!😉
Joe
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Hi Joe,
I understand, two terrific amplifiers with their own individual strengths, both excellent overall and can be enjoyed independently. I have a loaned First Watt S.I.T. special Nelson Pass designed D.I.Y. he did in push pull for additional power (40 watts). Pure class A and ultra simple circuit.
One of the best transistor amplifiers I’ve heard up to this point. Really good sounding top to bottom, quite impressive. In direct comparison the Frankenstein is more organic, reach out and touch tactile and palpable performers are more realistic. Both amplifiers are top tier however the Frankenstein at the end of the day is more emotionally engaging. The S.I.T. conveys emotion quite well but not to the same degree.
The solid state S.I.T. has very precise imagining placement and exceptionally good separation yet the Frankenstein is the more open and nuanced of the two. It’s a really interesting comparison of different topologies and design approach.
I can imagine how good your Pass Labs XA 30.8 must sound in your system.
Charles |
To be candid 90 % of my music listening is jazz which is overwhelmingly acoustic instruments and human voice. No doubt that this favors the innate qualities of a very good 300b SET amplifier. The Frankenstein is excellent with electric blues music, I don't listen to much rock and roll.
Charles |
