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to mod or not to mod my new tube amp?????

I asked this question before -- but want to take one more crack since I've had a hard time getting figuring this one out.....

I own a Jolida 302BRC bought last year. So far, all I have done is replace the power cord.

I would like a bigger sound, somewhat better soundstage, and a little more punch in the bass. Otherwise I love it.

For my budget. I have two options:
A.
(1) replace stock tube. I am thinking of (2) 12AX7 Mullard reissue
(2) 12AT7 RFT(1 quad) 6CA7 EH. This will cost around $150.

B.
I e-mailed Mike Allen at Jolida. He wrote back:

We can modify the amp for $200. Involves Hexfred diodes, fast recovery soft power up, ceramic resistors for the grid, highly stable and low noise probably the best you can get, and custom made coupling caps. You will still keep that great decay of the amp but you will see a jump up in the attack of the amp.

So, what do I do?!?!?!?!?! This is all very new to me and I could really use some advice.

Thanks -- Marty

We can modify the amp for $200. Involves Hexfred diodes, fast recovery soft power up, ceramic resistors for the grid, highly stable and low noise probably the best you can get, and custom made coupling caps. You will still keep that great decay of the amp but you will see a jump up in the attack of the amp.
martyw

Showing 3 responses by tvad

tvad
9,467 posts
 
I don't believe you're going to realize the benefits you desire for the $200 mod (or perhaps any mod).

A modification generally increases resolution and lowers noise floor, which can increase the size of your image, however I'm dubious of a $200 mod.

IMO, you will get the results you want with a better amp speaker match, especially where bass is concerned.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
03-06-09: Martyw
Thanks all. I am running them with a pair of quad 21l2s. What other amps would you recommend I listen to?

To receive useful responses, we need to know what speakers you are using and your budget.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
For more punch in the bass, IMO you need either solid state amplification, or perhaps a KT88 amplifier.

In general, I agree with Onhwy61 that you might be best served by keping what you have.

However, there are a few options if you want to experiment: PrimaLuna Prologue II, Classe CAP-150 or CAP-151, Unison Research Unico P, and Portal Panache.

All are within your price range if purchased used.

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