Realistic sound = tubes and analogue

[tube fan]

Most of the difference in sound between my AR SP-8 and D-70 and the new AR gear vanishes when new caps and resistors are used. Both my Fulton Js and Dunlavy SC-IV have extended high ends (the Fultons go much lower), and need no high end punch.

[E-Stat]

Most of the difference in sound between my AR SP-8 and D-70 and the new AR gear vanishes when new caps and resistors are used.

I'm not sure I agree entirely. The 6H30 tubes have a slightly different character from the traditional 12AX7s and 6922 / 7308 variants. Have you found a source for replacing the mylar coupling caps with the ones ARC now uses? They have also more than doubled the power supply capacity and require balanced connections.

...and need no high end punch.

Hmmm. I wouldn't characterize high frequency extension exactly as "high end punch". On the contrary, I enjoy hearing the innately soft and natural upper harmonics of bell trees, triangles, etc. Air is nice.

rw

[Geoffcin]

I'm not sure I agree entirely. The 6H30 tubes have a slightly different character from the traditional 12AX7s and 6922 / 7308 variants. Have you found a source for replacing the mylar coupling caps with the ones ARC now uses? They have also more than doubled the power supply capacity and require balanced connections.


Hmmm. I wouldn't characterize high frequency extension exactly as "high end punch". On the contrary, I enjoy hearing the innately soft and natural upper harmonics of bell trees, triangles, etc. Air is nice.

rw

Is ARC using the 6H30 tube now? I know that BAT was using that tube for their gear. I've had a chance to hear BAT amps several times. Was impressed about how NOT traditionally "tube" sounding they are.

[E-Stat]

Is ARC using the 6H30 tube now?

Yes, they've been using the "super tube" for ten years now. All of their top gear today uses them.

rw