Paramount 1.0 Build 300b

[SoundBytes]

After sitting in a box for a couple of years I finally started this build last week and just finished.  Everything tested out first shot, stock version 1.0, so I taped the boxes together and plugged them in.  They sound really really good right out of the gate.  Initial impression is lots of detail, solid dynamics, wide soundstage yet precise image.  I've got some Western Electric 300Bs to try in place of the EH and I'll order a couple 12AT7s in a moment.

Right now I'll just enjoy some music, let 'em breakin, and think about how I want to finish the wood.

Thanks Doc, Paul J., and Queen Eileen for a great kit, design, and service. 

[Doc B.]

Thanks for the kind words!

[SoundBytes]

I'm now completely sold on the Paramounts.  They have, in 1.0 form, exceeded my lofty expectations.  I'm now really curious how folks here would rank upgrades for the 300b version.  They are good enough to leave alone or invest in.  A nice place to be frankly.

So far I've swapped the stock tubes with:
  Western Electric 300b
  Mullard 6201

I'm thinking the  .1uf coupling cap (12at7 to 300b) is the next change. But which brand and which model?  V-Cap, Duelund, Mallory.

Or another set of suggestions for this progression?

So I'm fishing for suggestions.  

Thanks in advance.

System: Mac to Wavelength Cosecant with volume control to Paramount 300b to Nomad Audio Ronins (RMD) (open baffle mids) with active bass amps.  This is my primary configuration.  
  

[Paul Birkeland]

Hello Jim,

I still run my 1.0's, even with easy access to the upgrades.

Upgraded caps are nice, even just changing the 0.1uf and 47uf caps to Solens gets the job done pretty nicely.

In an amp like this, throwing in some OCCC wire from the RCA jack to the 12AT7 and between the output transformer and plate choke can make a nice difference. 

For my amps, I changed to 6LU8 driver tube.

-PB

[Grainger49]

Paul Birkeland, above, has also suggested upgrading the 0.1uF cap on the C4S boards.  Poster Paully went the Auricap route. 

Although they are very bulky you can get a pair of Military Surplus Teflon caps, 0.1uF@600V, to upgrade to a fine sounding cap at an unbelievably low price.

[SoundBytes]

Thank you both for sharing your insight.