which power tube sounds better: EL34 or 6550

Folks: Do you have an opinion on the comparison of EL34 and 6550 tube sounds?

Thanks.

SGTR

sgtr09-22-2004 5:00am

john_tracy Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 341 posts 09-22-2004 at 09:52pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I have not heard a current production EL34 tube that can even come close to the midrange reproduction of the GEC KT-88s in my amp. Haven't tried NOS EL34s; since I now have a good supply of the GEC KT-88s and Tung Sol 6550s.
rcprince Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 2,830 posts 09-22-2004 at 10:48pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete John tracy, I agree with you 100%. I was speaking of some NOS Mullards I've heard in my 80s, but even they couldn't match the GECs overall and in the mids it was very close between them. If you've got the scratch, they're the best way to go, in my opinion.
jallen Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 502 posts 09-23-2004 at 02:42am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete This depends on the strengths and weaknesses of your amp. The El34's are great in the mids, but a little weak in the bass and rolled on top with my RM9 MKII. The 6550 Svetlana's are great , but they lack the lush mid of the EL34. The 6550 has an iron-fisted bass, better than most SS amps I have heard including some Krells and the like. Buy two sets and trade them when you want a change. Jallen