2a3 rolling

[debk]

I have a few of pairs of 2a3's, Sovtek, Eh gold (came with the kit), and Linlai Elite.  I like the sound of the EH gold and Linlai better than the Sovteks.  However, the choice between the Linlai and EH Gold is closer.  When listening to my digital side it is a wash between the two, maybe a slight edge to the EH Gold.  When I listen to vinyl, the EH Gold wins hands down, more detail and better bass.  Would not have predicted that EH Gold would beat out the much more expensive Linlai tube, you never know.
Just listened to my UHQR pressing of Supertramp Crime of the Century, sounded incredible!
I think I have some old RCA 2a3 someplace, once I dig them out I'll give them a try

[Karl5150]

 My 180g copy of CotC (a favorite album from my youth) and several others have always sounded a little bright in my system. Your mini review has me questioning whether it is source related or maybe the stock Sovteks in my StereomourII.
Just out of curiosity, since it isn't an option for me, have you compared the tubes at both operating points?
Thanks,
Karl
   

[debk]

Didn't compare at both operating points will try it this weekend

[debk]

Tried both operating points.  I think the Linlai 2a3 improves slightly at the 60ma bias, not much of a difference with the EH tube.  Don't get me wrong both tubes sound fantastic in these amps.  You may get totally different results, there is a lot of personal bias and other factors between peoples systems.  I like to joke that I listen to $10000 of stereo equipment with $100 ears  .  I ordered a pair of JJ 2a3-40 to try  will let you know my impression when I get them.

[Karl5150]

"...I listen to $10000 of stereo equipment with $100 ears..." You and me both.  To me, in the end, if it gets your toes tapping and brings a smile to your face (or a tear to your eye) it's doing something right. Thanks for taking the time to check it out and enjoy the music.
Karl

[debk]

A little update.  I put a number more hours on the Linlai tubes and they started to open up and just sound fuller.  I think the tube needs a good 100 hours of burn-in time to sound it's best.  Currently listening to the JJ 2a3-40.  Very nice sounding tube out of the box.  High and mids are smooth,  and bass a little more forceful than the other 2a3s.  Kind of like a cross between a 2a3 and 300b.

Will keep the 2a3-40s in for a while and see how they mature