Siemens CCa vs. Amperex PW 6922

07-04-08: Rodman99999
Andy thinks the people that know about the older CCa's are nuts because all he has to sell are the later ear-hair-burning versions.

I don't think that's true. I believe from what he has told me that his opinion of CCA tubes stems from seeing and testing a substantial percentage of rejects. He generally doesn't look favorably upon those who pay exorbitant prices for questionable tubes. Can't blame him for trying to bring some reality to the table. At least I can't blame him.

Andy has always treated me very well, and he has sold me by far the best quality tubes of the varieties I have purchased from him.

Obviously, I purchased my CCa elsewhere. So be it.

There are opinions, and then there are facts. Siemens made no CCa's with shiny plates and internal date codes in the early 60's. From the 50's through 1965 they had the dull grey plate(electrostatic shield) under the getter support. From 1966 to the 80's, they had the shiny silver/chrome shield and internal date code plate(and a major difference in sonics). Once one hears those two iterations compared, without any other variables, no argument remains. That's given a system that is capable of resolving the differences(easy), ears not attached to a head convinced of preconceived notions(not so easy) and a mind able to admit the truth(even harder). Then again- No doubt there are systems so muted in their high frequency reproduction that they can use a boost there. As always- Whatever works for you is fine with me. Happy listening!

I am aware of all the info you posted. I've been buying dull grey plate CCa tubes for many years. I have not debated the merits of grey versus shiny support CCa tubes.

I know that good quality, non-microphonic, early 60s grey riser CCa tubes sound exceptional, and the best of the Siemens 6922 family (but not really my cup of tea in the long run).

Only about 60% of the dull grey support Siemens CCa tubes I have purchased have been good (including from our friend in Germany, although his ratio of good to bad has been higher). The rest have been junk.

So, IMO CCa tubes represent a bit of a risky purchase. If one can find a dealer who will accept returns, the risk is significantly lessened.

TVAD,
I agree 100% with everything you said about Andy. I was wondering if you could recommend another reasonable, reliable tube source, with a more extensive inventory, for those tubes that Andy doesn't carry.

Phaelon, that depends on the tubes you seek.

Upscale Audio seems to be one. Jim McShane is another, although I have not purchased from him.

The German source mentioned in this thread is another.

Basically, I believe it's critical to have a return privilege for tubes, even if it's a short one. If a seller doesn't offer one if asked, then I'd buy elsewhere.