[Kw6]

Hey guys,

Why does it seem that 2a3 tubes are falling out of and some prefer say El84 wired in triode?

Please enlighten me? Thanks 😊

[Tyson]

Depends on the speaker.  If a speaker is higher than 93db efficient, then the 2a3 is a great choice.  Below 93db and the EL84 in push-pull is the way to go.

[S Clark]

I've used 6bq5/EL84 (12-14 watt) amps on X-Statik speakers with excellent results.  They are in the 92 dB range.   On a pair of 88dB bookshelves, they are just a bit lacking in bass and control. 

[planet10]

It is hard to make a bad EL84 amp.

An SE EL84 in triode outputs 1.5-2 w, an SE 2A3 closer to 3.5w.

An EL84 amp wil also be much less expensive. I’d guess even a good EL84 PP would cost less than a good 2A3 SE amp. I would expect cost to be why you suggest people ar egetting EL84 SE instead of 2A3 SE.

I am currently listenind to my mighty (3.2 w at clipping) PP EL84 triode amp and boy does it sound good (FHXL with MA CHN-110).

We did build a string of ever better SE EL84 amps, starting out with a Decware clone. We ende dup with a scade feedback arrangment which we liked better and it outout 4.9w at clipping.

dave

[Kw6]

Ok thanks guys! Now the information is sinking in! ☺️