Phono Preamp 12AU7

thsmith

I have a Wright WPP100 Phono preamp.

I am using Amperex Bugle Boy 6ER5s and rolling 12AU7s in my phono pre. From my collection the RCA clear tops have the best overall sound, depth and width.

I am curious if there are any others I should look at that may best the clear tops.

Here is what I have and listed in order of best sounding.

RCA Clear Tops
Mazda - need more burn in time and have potential
Brimar 13D5 ties with Mullard
Mullard CV4003 ties with Brimar
RCA 5814 black plate (1950s)

Tracy

headrott

Try some Mullard late 50's D-getter long plate 12AU7's. They are good.

Also try some Amperex BB D-getter long plate 12AU7's or Amperex 7316's, especially the 7316's they have great sound and a huge soundstage.

Finally, some Valvo 45 degree angle Hamburg (NOT Holland made) late 50's 12AU7's are good, especially for tone.

Greg

thsmith

Thanks Greg !

I suspect none of these are cheap.

What would be your top pick of these ?

headrott

Unfortunately, you are correct. None are cheap. You may be able to get the Valvo's somewhat cheap and they are relatively easy to find. The Amperex 7316's are very expensive and are pretty darn rare, but sound great! The Amperex BB D-getter long plates can be found pretty easily, but usually go for around $110.00 a pair. The Mullard 50's D-getter long plates are somewhat easy to find but also go for relatively high amounts ($130 to $150 a pair).

I would try as many as you can in the phono preamp because they are all good and finding which one fits best in the preamp would be best, however:

My top choice would probably be the 7316's, but as I said are very hard to find and will cost you a lot of money.

But for some that are relatively easily attainable, I would go with the late 50's Valvo Hamburg long plates with the 45 degree halo getter. They are better than the RCA's (IMO) and are not too expensive.

Greg

thsmith

Thanks Greg for your input !

headrott

You bet Tracy! I would not spend a ton on any of the tubes I listed though as the tubes you have already are pretty good ones, but the ones listed can better them (IMO) but you will have to take into account if it worth the money for the amount of improvement you will gain. For your consideration.......

Greg