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A higher level than Mullard in tube quality?

I am just getting started in tube rolling which I find pretty exciting. Any thoughts or comments would be appreciated.

I have been upgrading the pre-amp tubes in a DK Design Mark II intergrated amp. My speakers are modded Magnepan 3.6's. My source is a Resolution Audio Opus 21. I listen to mostly acoustic jazz and vocals.

I went from a set of Electro-harmonix 6922 (like $20 each) to used 6dj8 Amprex "Bugle Boy" ($40 each) and that was a nice improvement -- well worth the cost. I just upgraded to Mullard 6922 NOS ($90 each) and WOW! I am amazed at the improvement. I could not have imagine that I could improve a $10,000 rig so much for so little. Now I am thinking ... what's next? Can I spend $300 and get another step up?

At this point, what is my next level up? Or is it more sideways to different type of sounds?

Question: used tubes of the same vintage are significantly less than NOS. Is there any down side to buying used (but tested) tubes? I can get 2 for the price of one NOS and probably get more hours from 2 combined. Also, it seems like a good way to lower the cost of testing different types of tubes ... or ... does the aging change the sound.

Question: I have Mullard Blackburn plant made 6922/E88CC gold pins in GE label from the 1960's. Would I get a different sound if I bought different Mullards, such as from a different time or a different plant? And do I just have to take the dealers word for the details -- it all seems so vague.

Right now I have $300 burning a hole in my pocket to try the next step up. But I fear I may hit the diminishing return ...

Thanks for your comments
mcmanus
rcprince
2,830 posts
 
While I prefer Telefunken and Siemens CCas to Mullards in my Jadis equipment, that is my personal taste and has nothing to do with the quality of the brands. I think all you're doing is changing the sonic flavor; by using NOS tubes you're also getting better-made tubes, so they should last longer. If you like the Mullard sound, keep in mind that it is different than Telefunken's and Siemens', and you may or may not like them better. I'd say stay with what you've got, since you like the sound, and spend the $300 on some music.

Aging changes the sound slightly, it'll get duller and less dynamic, but if they test strong it's worth getting used ones, at least for spares.

Answer to your last question is probably yes, but I wouldn't obsess over it.
sbank's avatar
sbank
2,038 posts
 
Read "Joe's Tube Lore". There are many flavors and many variants of any tube. Sure, some are at what you "higher levels", but it usually comes down to personal taste. There are many archived threads detailing others' experience in their gear. Try searching for experience w/the same electronics that use will using. Cheers,
Spencer
thorman
1,262 posts
 
Just be careful who you buying the tubes from...Sometings tube testing and rating of ones tube can be pretty vague..I would spend the extra $ and go with reliable tube sellers...... vs..Joe Shmos' used but test new tubes.....
whart's avatar
whart
1,930 posts
 
I had Mullard gold pins (NOS) in my Steelhead, but swapped them out for Telefunken 6922s (NOS). Sound went from warm and darkish to neutral and not edgy. A big improvement in my system, given my taste, although not inexpensive.
viiu
34 posts
 
I always thought that Philips SQ 7308 were the best of this bunch and they go for around $200-300 on eBay. I've had the best luck buying from sellers who use good testers and post the results.

Be sure to ask first that the tubes are not noisy or microphonic and what the return policy is.
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