...I would think that a company that knew your textbook audiophile (you know, money flows like water in pursuit of micro-audible improvements) would be itching to make a tube that performs better than everything else, that would not necessarily be that expensive to make (again, this is not microprocessing technology). They could mark the prices up "for the significant work that went into them" and make a killing, even in a niche market. Hell, if they really do make a killer product, it may introduce more people to tubes.

Hmmm...anyhow, thanks for the info on the current manufacturers.

Best,
Matt

(grin)

Don't understand all the economics of it myself. What you say should be right, but it doesn't always work that way. I do know that Western Electric is selling the new WE 300B's for several hundred bucks each, and they are having no problems selling them as fast as they can make 'em.. Guess it's still supply and demand.

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Truer words were never spoken, markl! As I've posted many times before, the HD-600s never really moved me........until now. Actually, before I acquired the EMP, I was listening to the HD-600s with the Wing modded (no negative feedback) MG Head. That really opened them up and lifted the veil that I had always felt was there. Now, with the EMP, they've been taken to another level altogether. They are so transparent, it's scary. And the bass? As you've posted, it's amazing! Absolutely the best bass I've ever heard. In a direct A/B comparison with the MG Head, the EMP goes MUCH deeper. It goes deeper than any other amp I have. Can't wait to get that Sylvania and hear what it does.......I just can't believe it get's better. But I've said that numerous times before with various amps and 'phones, and you know what? It can, and does get better. Still no end in sight!

Told you so, Joe.

(BTW, I'm gonna' wait until you roll in that Sylvania tube and get your impressions before I order one.)

Hi Matt.
I have been doing some tube rolling in the Earmax Pro lately. (HD-600 phones)
In the 12AT7 (Center) spot I've tried:
The Sylvania 12AT7 Gold Brand tube is a good one, it's much better all around than the stock tube and not too expensive.
I also tried a Telefunken diamond bottom tube. It had an unbelievable amount of detail, but was a little overwhelming for me.
Finally I settled on a Mullard BVA Logo tube. It had a little more extension and energy on the highs and a bit more bass than the Sylvania. The midrange is also on the warm and rich side, which you may or may not like.

For the 6DJ8 tubes (outboard tubes) I have tried Amperex Bugle boy tubes that I stole from my pre-amp. Those were very good, so I tried to find the Earmax it's own pair, but ended up with Amperex White Label tubes that were actually even a little bit better.

All of these tubes I have bought from Brent Jessee Recordings and have been very pleased with him.
http://www.audiotubes.com/bjtubes.htm

Great info, Todd. Thanks for posting those options.

Yeah, thanks Todd............*sound of credit card coming out of wallet*

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Happy to help!

Remember, this is the FUN part of tube ownership!
Don't worry, you'll like the Sylvania.

I'd be interested in a comparsion between the EarMax Pro and the HD83 kit amp (from Great Britain) if anyone has heard both with HD600s. I've heard that the HD83 also has amazing bass response and great overall sound for about half the price of the EarMax Pro. Of course you have to build it though.

Head-Fier Ross owns both of them as I recall. I think he said something about a more traditionally tubey sound from the Earmax Pro. Do a search here or at HeadWize (there, he is RossB).