CARY SLP05 - tube configuration?

OP--If you like the EH, all good.  Some people do.  Don't let us NOS/vintage snobs get in your head.  :)

What's odd is that the new production Tung Sols look almost identical to me, internally, but I think they are similar with just a touch more warmth with a little bit more solid bass.  Could be in my head or just different batches.

I'll probably get lit up for saying it, but maybe even try JJs.  They came stock in another pre, and I haven't felt an overwhelming need to change them out just yet.

Hi- is this NOS rectifier a decent upgrade over the stock? Approx market value if condition is good?

Mullard (for Zenith) GZ34 5AR4 1969 UK


My SLP-05 had a problem with the left channel, but it was intermittent. Gave up for several months and put my back-up in. Came across the upgrade, which replaces 10 caps and 20 resistors and figured they’d find the problem. Sure enough, there was a resistor which had smoked. My SA-200.2 was also improved with the current inputs. Mine was an original model with noisy parts. So far so good! Can’t directly compare the sound since it was nearly a year since I heard it.

Appreciate any advice on the rectifier.

I placed a Philips miniwatt in for the rectifier and it made a good difference.  No experience with mullards.

Mullard GZ34 are consider one of the best rectifiers made and are typically considered as a substantial upgrade over the stock JJ 5AR4. I use a 1960 Mullard GZ34 "fat base" rectifier in my slp05.

NOS Mullards run between $100 - $200 depending on year, manufacturing plant, and tube source (vendor). I always suggest going with a well known trusted vendor, you pay more, but you get quality. Also, rectifiers last a long time, therefore, the initial cost amortizes nicely over the tube’s lifetime.

@stfoth my tubes are very similar to yours. RCA grey glass in 1-4 and Sylvania chrome dome GT’s with 3 hole construction in the balanced positions.