[GordonFreeman]

Originally Posted by achristilaw

The biggest sound upgrade for the 701's is a cable change (it is sorely needed with the 701). And a signal tube like a Telefunken smooth plate ain't cheap. $125.00-150.00 nos in a box, nice used ones $40.00-50.00 . The signal tube can have as much as 100,000 hrs on it before a change is needed. You don't need the funken' for a quality signal, but it is the "kind" of signal tubes. Amperex are excellent and are half the cost. Many, many options out there. Actually Ray's choice for stock tubes are very good, and cheap! The Raptor is balanced sounding for an OTL, and not the sluggish nature that permeates the breed either. Thanks to its well conceived and executed Power Supply the Raptor will handle any "stock" phone you would care to throw at it. I prefer the closed low impedance variety and it breezes through these with aplomb! It is the quietest tube amp in my memory, not a Hum, whirr, whiz or tick. The Slee is prominent in the midrange and a good match with the thick Senn sound. No veil to be heard! Makes them agile and balanced sounding. And drives the "difficult" 701. If you are a Jazz fan the lack of bottom on the 701 doesn't matter. Fuel for thought. Keep checking the Forum sale pages, one or all show up from time to time.

Thanks Much!