[SHXMD]

Hello,

I usually lurk elsewhere and am relatively new here. I have one or two questions.

I have had the LTA MicroZotl preamp for about 6 months (I really like the sound) but I would like to try “tube rolling.”  Current tubes are 2-12AT7 input tubes and 2-12SN7 output tubes.

The new “reviewers and media” seem to express very positive opinions about the Apos Ray Reserve 6NS7 in LTA products and others. In addition, the new Soviet tube 12AT7 ECC 81 appears highly touted.
I am looking for “aliveness” and tonal accuracy.

Down stream I use a Bryson updated SS amp out to Magnapan LRS+. Streamer is an Auralic S1.

I understand personal preference issues and room dynamics, etc. but any all thoughts greatly appreciated!

(Also, any references to honest and “reasonable” tube sellers would be great.)

S

[FullRangeMan]

12AZ7, 12DT8 or 6201 are cheap, these appear to be identical to 12AT7 and are rated at 200Vhk. But before put unauthorized tubes in your amp ask the manufacturer opinion. Also there is 5963.

[musicdre]

i've had my LTA microszotl preamp for about a month and also enjoy it.   interested in recommendations here - and on experiences comparing 12SN7 with 6SN7 options.

thanks in advance. -andre

[FullRangeMan]

i've had my LTA microszotl preamp for about a month and also enjoy it.   interested in recommendations here - and on experiences comparing 12SN7 with 6SN7 options.

thanks in advance. -andre

12SN7 has stronger emission than 6SN7 due the 12V filament.

[Rusty Jefferson]

They frequently supply them with GE or RCA 12sn7s. If you have one of those, pick up a pair of the other and a pair of Sylvanias to compare. Stick with the 12sn7 output tubes, they are significantly less expensive than the equivalent 6sn7.

Experiment first with the input/driver tubes.  The most natural sounding 12at7 I've tried are the Siemens. If you don't need all the preamp gain you can substitute 12au7 for the 12at7 (this is the case with almost everything Berning designs.). The 12au7 are better sounding and more linear than the 12at7. Again, the Siemens are great choice, or Amperex for clean, open sound.