Best EF92 tubes for LD-MKII/III?

I really like the Mullard 8161.

x2 on the M8161.

those Mullards are really rich sounding EF92's. But I still would like to try other EF92's. Or EF91's even

BTW, I compared the M8161 to my Tungsol 6AK5 and preferred the Mullards

Are you talking about the Mullard 5654s? If so, I have not heard those.

I have a ton of other tubes though. Various EF95s, EF92s and EF91s. The 8161 is the closest to the full package. Great detail, space and separation. Punchy bass. Its not just my favorite EF92 tube it is my favorite tube period.

No, the stock GE 5654s.

What is the difference between Mullard EF92 labeled tubes and Mullard M8161 labeled tubes?

 

EF92

 

 

M8161

Hello,

 

I know it's an old thread but I'm very interested in what is the difference betwenn Mullard CV 4015 EF 92 and the Mullards just labeled "EF92". What are the differnces in sound and is the EF92 nearly as good as the CV4015's? Just got a bargain on 4 EF92 on ebay, can't wait till they arrive and I can try and compare them.

 

Thanks,

 

Nik

I don't have an MK IV but all three of the Little-Dot units in my signature are able to use EF92 tubes. My experiences with Mullard EF92/CV131 vs. Mullard M8161/CV4015 is that the M8161/CV4015 is a more "refined" sound. The EF92/CV131 has more bass than the M8161/CV4015 but it's a slightly sloppier/bloated bass. The M8161/CV4015 has better highs, but they can be a bit overbearing for some. The highs on the EF92/CV131 are softer but still very good.

I prefer the M8161/CV4015 overall but I think the Mullard EF92/CV131 is a slightly more "fun" tube. They both have the "mullard sound" with just minor variations overall IMO. I think the Mullard M8161/CV4015 sounds a lot like the Mullard EF91/CV138.
Edited by GotNoRice - 2/10/12 at 3:25pm

Hi,

 

thanks a lot for your explanation. I know the "Mullard sound" of my M8100 and I love it.I will go for the M8161 too. So if someone got a pair for a fair price - pm me.

I think pretty much any reputable vintage brand is fine. Personally, I wouldn't seek too hard. Go budget price on these.

Got some Mullard EF92 (the ones with the silver cone inside) as an absolute bargain and think they sound really good comared to the establsihed "big one" tubes. Can recommend them for people liking the mullard sound and who don't want to spend too much for good tubes.