Lamm L2 Reference tube recommendation

I bought a pair of Mullard NOS 12AX7's for my ML 2.1 (circa 1957). The sound was good but very mellow and laid back. Cymbals sounded like cymbals when I put back the chosen tubes by Vladimir. Trust me he knows how to voice his components and IMO tube rolling will produce different sound. What the listener needs to ask of himself is "Am I hearing something different or am I hearing something better?"

What the listener needs to ask of himself is "Am I hearing something different or am I hearing something better?"
Oneobgyn (System | Reviews | Answers)

Excellent point.

In my case, I heard something preferable.

I have read on several occasions that Vladimir does not voice his components by listening, but that he designs by testing and measuring. This comment has been repeated in several reviews.

Tvad

The man is a genius

I had opportunity to have on loan his newly released ML3 Signature amps and IMHO there isn't a better amp in the galaxy. Now if I had $140K lying around I would buy a pair in a heartbeat

Oneobgyn, somehow I think $140k for you is more an issue of will than wallet.
:)

Vladimir certainly designs some excellent gear. No argument from me there.

My mantra has always been "let our ears and wallets guide us". Having said that I just would not (even if I had that kind of coin) shell out that much money. To have heard the ML3 amps however is almost like having an out of body experience