Modwright SWL9.0 SE Tube Rolling

So Mihilli, what are your impressions regarding the GE 7044/Sylvania GB-5687 comparison?

Well, my intial impressions were that the GBs did some nice things tonally but seemed to have a negative impact on dynamics, leading edge and overall rhtyhm.

Now after listening to them a bit more I think they may be growing on me.

So, I'm going to leave them in for the rest of the week. Then Saturday I will do some side by side, listen, change back to the 7044s, listen to the same music again and try to come to a conclusion.

I think where I'm coming to is that they both sound much better then the stock 5687s but individually they each have some distinct qualities, so it's a matter of preferance. GB5687s more of a traditional tube sound, luscious midrange, sweeter highs. Jan 7044s more modern tube sound, better PRAT, more dynamic.

I'll let you know thoughts after the big shoot out on Saturday...............

Personally, I liked the Bendix 6900's best.

I bought a Modwright sony 999ES and it came with an extra set of cryoed Phillips 7119/E182CC. I preffered them so much in the Sony that I tried them in my SWL 9.0. They are (in my system) not even in the same league as the originals or others I have rolled. The soundstage moved back and became much more defined and wider, while improving midrange bloom. Female vocals and individual instruments float so delicatly in the air betwen my speakers on soft passages, that with eyes closed I can feel thier presence in the room.

I have been following this thread and picked up a pair of Sylvania GB-5687 and even after 3 days of continous playing I couldn't sit and listen to them. Very etched on top. So much air around voices and instruments is sounded like snakes hissing, although they did settle down from when new, they over exaggerate the highs and midrange in both Modwright pieces in my system.

I also tried them in my sony with the same results so went back to the JAN5687 in the sony.

I have another pair of the cryoed Phillips 7119/E182CC on order to see if pairing them in both pieces is too much or an improvement.

Just my 2 cents

Russ

I have been following this thread and picked up a pair of Sylvania GB-5687 and even after 3 days of continous playing I couldn't sit and listen to them. Very etched on top. So much air around voices and instruments is sounded like snakes hissing, although they did settle down from when new, they over exaggerate the highs and midrange in both Modwright pieces in my system.

That's really interesting. My experience with the Sylvania GB-5687, and the experience of two other local Modwright owners is exactly the opposite.

Just goes to prove the axiom that "Your Mileage May Vary".

Thanks to everyone for contributing to this thread. It's a great resource for Modwright owners.