Tubes in the phono chain JD-9

hibuckhobby · « **on:** 22 Apr 2011, 02:51 am »

Just picked up a JD-9 from a member here and put it in my system.
I'm comparing it to the internal preamp in my Marantz PM11S1 which is a challenge for it, since the Marantz integrated is a $4k unit.

The Jolida is smoother through the midrange with bigger, rounder images and a wider soundstage. The Marantz is slightly more neutral and faster...especially in regards to sudden transients like plucked strings. Both sound good...although different. I've ordered some reissue Tungsols to try in the Jolida. I like what it does for strings and female vocals in terms of tonality. I'm going to see if I can get a bit more speed and keep the tone.

I know there are a number of Jolida owners on the forum, so suggestions appreciated.
regards,
Hibuck....

neobop · « **Reply #1 on:** 22 Apr 2011, 11:26 am »

Have you seen this thread?
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=62730.0

I don't have one of these, but I wonder if anyone has tried 7035 or 5751 tubes in there. The 5751 is a military version. You'll lose a little gain. I've read that the JD-9 has gain to spare, 91dB? I also read that re-issue Mullards are popular with these.
neo

Miney · « **Reply #2 on:** 22 Apr 2011, 06:19 pm »

Not much of a roller here, but back in 2009 when I bought my JD-9 I replaced the stock tubes with Sovtek 12AX7LPS tubes based on advice from Jim McShane. He felt that the LPS were a better choice... in his words "They are SOOOO quiet - and the excellent tonal balance is also very desirable."

I definitely enjoy the sound... but note I've not compared, just enjoyed.

Will be interested in what others have to add here.

Paul

hibuckhobby · « **Reply #3 on:** 25 Apr 2011, 11:04 pm »

Just put in a pair of Tungsol reissues and removed the metal shrouds. Wow! I know these have to burn in...but I hope it doesn't change much...this thing went from good to great in my system.
Hibuck....

ltr317 · « **Reply #4 on:** 26 Apr 2011, 12:05 am »

Quote from: neobop on 22 Apr 2011, 11:26 am

Have you seen this thread?
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=62730.0

I don't have one of these, but I wonder if anyone has tried 7035 or 5751 tubes in there. The 5751 is a military version. You'll lose a little gain. I've read that the JD-9 has gain to spare, 91dB? I also read that re-issue Mullards are popular with these.
neo

I hope you mean 7025, not 7035 tube and that it's a typo. The 7025 was designed specifically for audio application, and it is supposed to be a quieter 12AX7 tube, but from my experience this isn't always the case.

SteveFord · « **Reply #5 on:** 26 Apr 2011, 10:12 am »

I did the same as Miney (Sovtek 12AX7-LPS) and liked the results.

hibuckhobby · « **Reply #6 on:** 28 Apr 2011, 02:48 am »

Tungsols are settled in and I love them! Nice, full sound and good extension on both ends of the spectrum. That Jolida is a perfect match for my Marantz PM11S1. It's also very kind to the Shure Type Vxmr cart and my Rega 25. Great tonality and impact.
Hibuck...

robob · « **Reply #7 on:** 1 May 2011, 07:13 pm »

I have NOS 80's Sylvania 5751's, which are more refined/more detailed than the TungSol's it came with, in my JD9.

Still waiting for more ideas in the other thread to get rid of the mid/lower treble peak.

Y'all be cool,
Robert