Valhalla vs Crack for HD650 - Page 2

I ended up selling my Valhalla and keeping the Crack/Speedball.........

Quote:

Originally Posted by lextek 

I ended up selling my Valhalla and keeping the Crack/Speedball.........

Would you mind elaborating more on your Crack/Speedball vs. Valhalla experience?  I have the former on order (in kit form) and there are times where I'm debating if that's what I really want.  In favor of the Valhalla is that I wouldn't have to build it up (which is also against it, 'cause then I won't have the experience of building the Crack/Speedball) and that the Valhalla is a smaller, more contained unit.

Basically, I could use some reassurance that I'm making the right choice... especially when compared to the Valhalla.  Thanks!

Quote:

Originally Posted by uzi 

 

Would you mind elaborating more on your Crack/Speedball vs. Valhalla experience?  I have the former on order (in kit form) and there are times where I'm debating if that's what I really want.  In favor of the Valhalla is that I wouldn't have to build it up (which is also against it, 'cause then I won't have the experience of building the Crack/Speedball) and that the Valhalla is a smaller, more contained unit.

 

Basically, I could use some reassurance that I'm making the right choice... especially when compared to the Valhalla.  Thanks!

You really can't go wrong with either amp.  I had a blast building the Crack.  The Val never sounded like a tube amp to me.  It sounded more solid state.  The Crack just has a smoother more musical sound to it for me.  I've added the Speedball and the sound just got bigger.  Even using as a preamp/linestage in a small speaker set-up.  Plus I like the "vintage" look of the Crack.
 

Quote:

Originally Posted by Neogeo333 

The speedball option is definately a plus.  It allows for more driver tube rolling.  Try some 12bh7 instead of 12au7.

Definitely agreed Neogeo333.  Before Speedball, I noticed little to no difference when changing out input and output tubes.  Once Speedball was in... it was almost night and day difference.  I now use the 6080 for more lower end 'oomph' and the 6AS7G for detail and clarity.

if you want both detailed and bass in a one tube solution try getting a Tung-Sol 5998.  Best tube in my opinion for the Crack.  I have tried many and always keep coming back to them.  there not cheap but worth every cent.

Dang,

Im so excited to get my Crack! lol :)

interesting because im getting it before i have headphones that need it....