Tube recomendations for a newbie

Tube rolling can be fun, and it can certainly make a meaningful difference. I do it all the time.

But it is a learning process and you must start with an objective, that is, after your unit is well broken in you have to be able to identify what about the present units sound you want to improve and identify which tubes is most likely to get you there.

Then you have to identify the tubes which can move your sound in that direction. BTW, I usually expect to get larger changes using power tubes and smaller, but more critical in the final analysis, from small tubes.

You are right to take your time! But start reading up on the subject by following the forums and seeing what users have to say about the general quality and tone of the available tubes used in your amp so when you do decide to move you will be reasonably well informed and have a good basis on which to begin.

Btstrg, our experiences are the opposite of one another. While I am not the biggest fan of Chinese amplifiers, as they sometimes miss on either design or implementation, among other things, I actually think the tubes have become quite good. In the majority of cases they're far better than the Russian alternatives of today in my opinion.

Not sure about the 12AX7 you had, but the Shuguang 12AX7B with triple mica are a definite best buy in my opinion. I did hear the previous version were pretty lousy. Do you know if you had the double or triple mica version?

Swapping tubes can give a different sound, but the opinions may vary on this. In my case i have had an overdrive tone with my amp.

Good Question . Absolutely change the tubes . Brent Jesse’s site gives a very accurate description as to what different driver tubes sound like . Ive never owned your speakers, or amp . At one time I had an Anrique Sound Labs 30 wpc integrated and JBL 4312a’s and Klipsch Heresy II’s . I preferred NOS Telefunkens. On a budget the Tungsrams are nice . My preferred power tube was the SED Winged C. In your amp I would consider the new Gold Lion EL34 , or the better yet the KT-77 if compatible . Every tube change will lend a sound change . With the power tubes I found some made significantly more bass than others too . Save the original tubes and power cord and packaging for future sale . And remember you can always join “ TUBE ROLLERS ANONYMOUS  “ !  Happy Listening Mike.  

I may have the same amp you have. Depends on what you mean by better sound. The Chinese tubes are usually very detailed, but can be thin in the midrange. If you want more midrange warmth, would suggest the EH6CA7 fat bottles to replace your EL34s, and almost any US or European 12AU7 and AX7....

good luck