Bottlehead Forum

Bottlehead Kits => Eros Phono => Topic started by: mediumgrade on February 13, 2024, 01:53:35 PM

Title: Telefunken EF86 tubes...
Post by: mediumgrade on February 13, 2024, 01:53:35 PM
If any of you are looking for a good EF86 tube upgrade for the Eros, I highly recommend the Telefunken EF86 tubes I purchased from audiotubes.com. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against the old stock Russian tubes the Eros comes with. They are solid performers for daily use that are quiet with a decent tone. HOWEVER, the Telefunkens are a definite upgrade. The mid-range is clearer and has a liquid/lifelike quality that is very captivating. The tone is also absolutely excellent. On some mediocre 70s rock records, I found that highs were both clearer and more vivid while also being less harsh to listen to.

I won't bore folks with a long winded review. Just consider me a very happy camper!
Title: Re: Telefunken EF86 tubes...
Post by: Ericmaze on February 14, 2024, 10:26:30 AM
nice. did you buy the red tips at $159ea or the 'classic' others at $109ea?
Title: Re: Telefunken EF86 tubes...
Post by: mediumgrade on February 19, 2024, 10:53:55 AM
Classic. I was not aware of the other. Good?
Title: Re: Telefunken EF86 tubes...
Post by: Ericmaze on February 20, 2024, 01:55:35 PM
I've not tried either, am considering tho. I have a pair of Valvo in mine right now.
Title: Re: Telefunken EF86 tubes...
Post by: Brooklynbottle on April 02, 2024, 04:38:27 PM
Red tips are the medical grade. Especially selected for critical use. I have some red tip Amperex Au7's in my El 34 amp that are outstanding!
Hard to say if the 50% increase in price would yield a cost worthy improvement over the standard issue in the Eros 2.
I know the red tips in my application were worth the investment.