Golden Tube SE-40

[poppachubby]

OK, it's here!! I have started this thread so I can track its progress as I build it up. Big shout out to Adam!! It's in excellent shape. Oh ya, my kid insisted on being in the photos...

[poppachubby]

Front view

[02audionoob]

Welcome to the dark side.

[thekid]

Very cool!
Have you had a chance to give the new gear a good listen yet?

Way to go getting em started into audio while they are young........ :D

[Feanor]

Front view
I like your guy's T-shirt. :)

[audio amateur]

Very cute kid Chubbs.
The amp looks sweet. What's the state of the bulbs?

[Geoffcin]

http://gallery.audioreview.com/data/audio//500/thumbs/DSC02658.JPG

Honestly daddy, I don't know where the tubes are?

[poppachubby]

http://gallery.audioreview.com/data/audio//500/thumbs/DSC02658.JPG

Honestly daddy, I don't know where the tubes are?

Hahahahah!! Thanks alot Geoff!!! My wife says thanks too, she got a huge kick out of that!! Too funny...

Ya, the tubes. They arrived here safe and sound. As I was unpacking I dropped a pre tube and "SMASH"!

I haven't hooked anything up yet. I have to buy it a power cord. Now, I need a new tube too. I have a tube pro who has agreed to look at it and "kick it up a notch", Sonic Craft style.

[Auricauricle]

Nice space heater there, Poppa! Cute kid as well!

[Geoffcin]

Hahahahah!! Thanks alot Geoff!!! My wife says thanks too, she got a huge kick out of that!! Too funny...

Ya, the tubes. They arrived here safe and sound. As I was unpacking I dropped a pre tube and "SMASH"!

I haven't hooked anything up yet. I have to buy it a power cord. Now, I need a new tube too. I have a tube pro who has agreed to look at it and "kick it up a notch", Sonic Craft style.

Thanks! Your kid is super-photogenic, and that expression is absolutely priceless.

I would send you a pre-tube, but all I've got here is a couple spare Gold Lion KT88's. The original owner of my tube amp rolled all the tubes. It's got Tung Sols 6SN7GTB driver tubes, and Mullard 12AT7s. If you've got to get a new tube it might make sense to roll up.

[poppachubby]

Well I'm in the hands of a tube expert here locally. I'm supposed to meet with him tommorrow and hopefully we'll get the project swinging in the next couple of weeks, after Xmas. I want this thing in pristine condition and singin the way it should.

I know NOTHING about tube properties so I will have a long road of learning to do.

[harley .guy07]

Well let us know how it goes I have been thinking about getting into a tube preamp for some time. I think it might help bring out the best of my ss amp.

[JoeE SP9]

Check the review of the ARC SP-9 in Tone Audio issue No.24. I'm a long time SP-9 owner. The tube preamp's I like more cost a lot more. The Audible Illusions is another nice tube preamp. Unfortunately the dual volume controls eliminate it from my list. Another line to consider is Conrad Johnson. Mr Peabody has lots of experience with CJ products.

[Auricauricle]

For you guys who are thinking about using a tube preamplifier to wed to your SS amp, remember the caveat that may as well be a Golden Rule around here: Synergy is Everything. Matching components is important even in this case, and while one preamp may sound great if used with one amp, it may sound like sheep-dip when used with another.

In the meantime, have fun--you lucky sods!

[poppachubby]

For you guys who are thinking about using a tube preamplifier to wed to your SS amp, remember the caveat that may as well be a Golden Rule around here: Synergy is Everything. Matching components is important even in this case, and while one preamp may sound great if used with one amp, it may sound like sheep-dip when used with another.

In the meantime, have fun--you lucky sods!

I'll be starting with a Kenwood Basic C1 for my pre amp Auric. I don't anticipate a lack of synergy...

[MikeyBC]

Thats a nice sounding amp, a friend had one a few years back and we spend many hours in front of it...I hope you got a manual with the procedure for setting the bias voltage...It has manual bias adjust that should be set periodically

[blackraven]

Check the review of the ARC SP-9 in Tone Audio issue No.24. I'm a long time SP-9 owner. The tube preamp's I like more cost a lot more. The Audible Illusions is another nice tube preamp. Unfortunately the dual volume controls eliminate it from my list. Another line to consider is Conrad Johnson. Mr Peabody has lots of experience with CJ products.


Take a look at the Van Alstine Tube Preamp. It is reasonable in price at about $1500. It matched well with my Parasound SS amp but decided to go with his Tube Hybrid Preamp.

[atomicAdam]

poppachubby -

Glad it got there all good. Sorry about the tube. Prob my fault for wrapping in a t-shirt and forgetting to tell you. And didn't come w/ a power cord to me, and I've only got one spare. Sorry.

Anyways, Jeff from Sonic Craft just left me a very long message the other day about the amp (he has seen photos) and about a kit they are putting together. If you want the info and go that route I can get you in contact with Jeff. LMK.

I hope it all works out for you.

-aA

[poppachubby]

Man am I ever happy. Scored a fantastic power cable for the amp today. My fave, AR Pro Series II. 12 AWG, 20 feet, hospital grade and shielded to the nuts. The beauty is, I only paid $20 CDN!!!! It's a good day people!!! Feanor, if you're reading this, they're at Forest City Surplus, only 8 left! I actually bought 2.

Here it is on Amazon for $30 plus shipping. It once retailed at about $120.

http://www.amazon.com/Pro-3-PIN-Grounded-Power-Cord/dp/B000I3C6QA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1249344540&sr=8-1

[audio amateur]

Big fat lookers they are. Nice find, could 'ave gotten me some!

[poppachubby]

Big fat lookers they are. Nice find, couldn't gotten me some!


I don't think that 20 feet will reach from Cantebury to Geneva!

[audio amateur]

Lol. wait 20 feet?? why so long?

You not going online Chubbs?

[thekid]

Pops

Piece by piece it looks like you are getting there....
Congrats!

[poppachubby]

Lol. wait 20 feet?? why so long?

You not going online Chubbs?


I'm at work right now, so no.


Pops

Piece by piece it looks like you are getting there....
Congrats!

Thanks kid!! Ya. I should have the amp upgraded, rolled and biased by the end of the holidays. It came to me with a specific problem, hopefully some due diligence will rid this.

[poppachubby]

OK!! My tech called to tell me that the amp is up and running, and sounding sweet! Still a bit more work to do, I should have it this week some time...

[audio amateur]

Sweet. I hope it's up to your expectations when you hear it. I'll want to see some PICS!

[poppachubby]

The amp is ready!! I will go pick it up in the next few days...

[devuonoste]

Congrats poppachubby!

Hope you enjoy!

Please let us know what your thoughts are after some critical listening.

[harley .guy07]

Cool that you got it done. Let me know how your Kenwood SS preamp does with your Golden Tube. And how your digital media sounds through you new "to you" amp. I think it is fun and cool just to play around with different gear to see what is possible with different combinations. What speakers are you planning to drive with this amp? Or are you still planning to build a set of full range open baffle speakers like you were talking about earlier. To me it seems like most of the lovers of vintage or lower powered tube gear like the exotic full range or horn designed speakers I think mostly for their efficiency and how well they match up with the lower powered tube gear. I haven't heard much of this kind of gear lately but it still seems to be a somewhat popular option for people that want something that is out of the norm of what non audiophiles think of a audio system. Let me know how all of this comes along

[poppachubby]

Cool that you got it done. Let me know how your Kenwood SS preamp does with your Golden Tube. And how your digital media sounds through you new "to you" amp. I think it is fun and cool just to play around with different gear to see what is possible with different combinations. What speakers are you planning to drive with this amp? Or are you still planning to build a set of full range open baffle speakers like you were talking about earlier. To me it seems like most of the lovers of vintage or lower powered tube gear like the exotic full range or horn designed speakers I think mostly for their efficiency and how well they match up with the lower powered tube gear. I haven't heard much of this kind of gear lately but it still seems to be a somewhat popular option for people that want something that is out of the norm of what non audiophiles think of a audio system. Let me know how all of this comes along

I've put the brakes on the speakers for now. I heard a pair of Martin Logan that quite literally blew my mind. These are well out of my reach, but it got me thinking that electro-stat could be an option.

I have the plans ready to build a simple pair of frugal horns. In the meantime, I got an outstanding deal on a pair of Sound Dynamics 1200-SMT. I'm hoping these will be a nice match and buy me some time to get familiar with the amp, and decide how to proceed.

I plan to sit on this amp for some time. I just want to sit and listen to music. I figure after a year or so, I may upgrade my TT as this will be an analog set up.

You would like the Sound Dynamics harley, they are very Paradigm-ish. Big 'ol aluminum tweeter so maybe a tad bright for you...check out this thread I posted, it has some pics...


http://forums.audioreview.com/showthread.php?t=32743

[harley .guy07]

Wow they look quite different from the Sound Dynamics speakers that I sold when I was the audio shop manager back in the 90's. The sound dynamics speakers I sold were basically built similar to Paradigm in the fact that they were WWT designs and used poly cones for its midwoofers. They were a good speakers for their lower price tags and I sold quite a few of them to people looking for a good speaker for a low price. But like I said the ones you have are from a different era and are totally different. They look like they could work well with the tube amp though with the horn tweeter and the woofer is probably a efficient driver as well so it should be easy to drive.

[RGA]

I've put the brakes on the speakers for now. I heard a pair of Martin Logan that quite literally blew my mind. These are well out of my reach, but it got me thinking that electro-stat could be an option.

I have the plans ready to build a simple pair of frugal horns. In the meantime, I got an outstanding deal on a pair of Sound Dynamics 1200-SMT. I'm hoping these will be a nice match and buy me some time to get familiar with the amp, and decide how to proceed.

I plan to sit on this amp for some time. I just want to sit and listen to music. I figure after a year or so, I may upgrade my TT as this will be an analog set up.

You would like the Sound Dynamics harley, they are very Paradigm-ish. Big 'ol aluminum tweeter so maybe a tad bright for you...check out this thread I posted, it has some pics...


http://forums.audioreview.com/showthread.php?t=32743

Check out the "King Sound" Prince II electrostatic panels - http://www.kingsaudio.com.hk/

They are a Hong Kong based panel maker operating in the US. They're priced at $6,000 a pair. IMO they deal a KILLER blow to the panel making competition especially when most of the others are charging more than twice the price and don't sound as good. This is the first panel I can say is not only "worth the money" but you feel as if you're stealing them.

[poppachubby]

Check out the "King Sound" Prince II electrostatic panels - http://www.kingsaudio.com.hk/

They are a Hong Kong based panel maker operating in the US. They're priced at $6,000 a pair. IMO they deal a KILLER blow to the panel making competition especially when most of the others are charging more than twice the price and don't sound as good. This is the first panel I can say is not only "worth the money" but you feel as if you're stealing them.

Wow. Those Emperor's look amazing. I won't lie Rich, 6 g's is far more than I could dream of spending right now. I have a young family and a house, we are probably in the toughest financial stage of our lives.

One option that may exist for me is hanging around the King Sound dumpster. I'm sure if I stand there long enough, something good will get thrown out of the factory.

With all of your experience and knowledge of tube amps, What are some decent options in the $1000 and under category? Also, what are your thoughts on frugal horns?

[poppachubby]

Hallelujah! Sounds amazing. I am heading back to work but just in the half hour of listening, amazing detail and I'm floored by the accuracy of the stereo imaging. Places the band perfectly. Thrilled is an understatement. Hey RGA, SET does rule...

[poppachubby]

Hey Adam, if you're reading this. The pop you heard was a cap that had essentially exploded. Also, he found a resistor that someone had replaced which was WAY off. He ended up replacing everything, Wima stuff too...

[Ajani]

Hallelujah! Sounds amazing. I am heading back to work but just in the half hour of listening, amazing detail and I'm floored by the accuracy of the stereo imaging. Places the band perfectly. Thrilled is an understatement. Hey RGA, SET does rule...

Daaaayum... Those speakers look sweet!!!! Nothing like the Macho look of retro speakers...

[poppachubby]

Daaaayum... Those speakers look sweet!!!! Nothing like the Macho look of retro speakers...

Macho indeed, they weigh 60 lbs each!!

[atomicAdam]

Hey Adam, if you're reading this. The pop you heard was a cap that had essentially exploded. Also, he found a resistor that someone had replaced which was WAY off. He ended up replacing everything, Wima stuff too...

Well, what can I say. AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm so glad the SE-40 has found a great home and someone to care for it. Though caution, it gets hot! You best move that to the top or off to the side.

Here's wish I could hear your set up.

-adam

[poppachubby]

Well, what can I say. AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm so glad the SE-40 has found a great home and someone to care for it. Though caution, it gets hot! You best move that to the top or off to the side.

Here's wish I could hear your set up.

-adam

Ya thanks again man!! Thanks for the advice, I noticed that tonight. It actually breathes better than the pic leads your eyes to believe. With the kids around, I'll be changing my setup. I have another rack the same size that is able to pile on top. It'll be up and out of the way, with a bigger shelf space soon.

I need to hit a surplus store for one last part for your battery set up. I admit, I haven't even thought about it the last couple of days. I'll do it over the weekend and send it out hopefully next week...

[audio amateur]

Congrats Chubby, I'm happy to hear you like it! Now, is it gonna be Tektons, Maggies, Frugals or are you gonna stick with your current speakers?

[Feanor]

Hallelujah! Sounds amazing. I am heading back to work but just in the half hour of listening, amazing detail and I'm floored by the accuracy of the stereo imaging. Places the band perfectly. Thrilled is an understatement. Hey RGA, SET does rule...
Looking great, PC. :thumbsup:

I'm looking forward to hearing the Golden Tube; sounds like lots of quality work was done on it. Contrary to any impression I might have given to RGA, I'm extremely interested in hearing the Maggies driven by a tube amp.

[audio amateur]

I still find that head a little creepy...

[poppachubby]

Thanks for the love guys!! I am just getting ready to stack my 2 racks together.


I'm extremely interested in hearing the Maggies driven by a tube amp.

Bill, I'll be up for bringing it by soon. Do you think I should bring my preamp too? I am using a Kenwood Basic C1. If you think the sound of yours might be misleading, I think it might be a good idea.

First, I want to spend some time with the Golden Tube so I can better understand what I'll be hearing with your Maggies. My only concern is power. I've spoken to half a dozen owners who use Maggies and they all swear by the combo. I certainly don't have any need for volume so we'll see.


Now, is it gonna be Tektons, Maggies, Frugals or are you gonna stick with your current speakers?

Not sure. I think I'll probably build the horns just for the sake of it. It's a relatively affordable project taht I can slowly chip away at. I have to admit, I am really keen on Tektons right now. Great company. The 8.1's are a giant killer and meet my needs perfectly on all levels.

As for Maggies, I'll be having a good listen at Feanor's place with his 1.6's. I hope they sound as good as I'm anticipating. If so, I will probably have to wait until next year to make the purchase.

Tektons I could buy straight away. Poultrygeist gave me a link to guy who builds and sells on Ebay. The speakers he creates are a full range, SET type, a poor mans Tekton essentially. He has nothing up for auction right now so I can't link you.

My Sound Dynamics are sounding quite nice actually. They will hold me over quite nicely.

What I really want to upgrade is my table.

[poppachubby]

I will kill you Stephen!!!!!!

[audio amateur]

OMG I'm scared now!!! haha

[Feanor]

...
Bill, I'll be up for bringing it by soon. Do you think I should bring my preamp too? I am using a Kenwood Basic C1. If you think the sound of yours might be misleading, I think it might be a good idea.

First, I want to spend some time with the Golden Tube so I can better understand what I'll be hearing with your Maggies. My only concern is power. I've spoken to half a dozen owners who use Maggies and they all swear by the combo. I certainly don't have any need for volume so we'll see.
...
Chubbs, not a bad idea to listen to the GT for a dozen hours at least to burn it the tubes and get used to the sound. (Yes, new tubes definitely need some burn-in.)

Bring the C1 too, if you like. (My guess: the Sonic Frontiers will kill it -- but we shall see.) :6:

[poppachubby]

Bring the C1 too, if you like. (My guess: the Sonic Frontiers will kill it -- but we shall see.

That's my worry Bill. Your gear is better than mine. If I use your preamp, I might be getting an unrealistic sound in terms of what my preamp is capable of.

[audio amateur]

Chubbs, your PM box is full. I've sent you an email

[thekid]

Pops

Just got back in town and on-line with AR.
System looks great and glad to hear you are loving the sound.
Always good to see the journey was worth it.

[poppachubby]

Both racks stacked.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4048/4333443841_5c1dac4dc8.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/4333444763_b1b44c2542.jpg

[thekid]

Nice pics!

Can't have vinyl without having some milk crates....... :)

[poppachubby]

Nice pics!

Can't have vinyl without having some milk crates....... :)

Thanks kid! I painted them myself. Any milk crate that is big enough for LP's, is a good milk crate in my book.

As for the amp, I have been up all night listening to my fave albums. As all the reviews claim, it's definitely weak in the bass department. It's more of a sweet sounding bass, which isn't the worst thing. As for accuracy or punch in the low end...not happenin.

Where this thing lives, is in the mid range. Coincidentally, I have a Shure M97ex on the table right now, another mid heavy piece. The combination is deadly where vocals are concerned. I found that as the night wore on, I was digging for more vocal based LP's. Ella Fitzgerald made 3 or 4 encores, as did Tracy Chapman, Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder. The mid to high mid is heavenly. Fantastic tone and probably the amps fastest area. It kept up wonderfully with complex jazz phrases, while detailing each instrument.

This brings me to another really noticable strength, soundstage. I wonder how incredible some of the really high end amps must be. The Golden Tube has really impressive ability in terms of imaging. I was quite literally blown away by certain performances where before this, had not been able to cut through. On Sonny Rollins' Saxophone Colossus, I had to Strode Rode about 5 times in a row. When the band cuts out to let Roach solo, the depth of the soundstage is amazing. The Golden Tube places him front and center, however, still at the perceived "rear". What re-affirms this clearly, is when the band bring it back in. Rollins blasts on his sax in front of Roach, again, front and center. Awesome.

Rather than continue endlessly (I haven't discussed highs yet) , I'll just say that I'm feeling inspired to write. Hopefully someone curious about this amp will read this and everything else I have to say, which will be put to a thread inevitably.

I haven't been this excited about my system in quite a while. Really makes it fun. I'll keep you posted Scotty boy! ;