Feliks-Audio ELISE...New thread.

[spruce]

Thank you so much for sharing your impressions. This is immensely helpful!

Sorry, one caveat I had forgotten about! I bought the Apos Select for my Elise because I liked how it sounded in my Lyr 3. Not sure why there’s a difference in my feelings between the two as I’ll need to go back and listen in my Lyr3 to see if my impression was correct. For example, in my Lyr3 I just noticed enjoyable warmth, but perhaps I wasn’t paying attention to anything else at the time. Or maybe the difference is due to the Elise being more capable overall and contrasting any nuances in tube capabilities…

Also, these are my first impressions so they may change, but I feel pretty satisfied with those other tubes in general. Regarding evaluation of specific frequencies like the mid range, I’ll definitely need more listening time.

Would be great to hear your impressions as well wherever you may land. Happy listening!

 

[Charade19]

Sorry, one caveat I had forgotten about! I bought the Apos Select for my Elise because I liked how it sounded in my Lyr 3. Not sure why there’s a difference in my feelings between the two as I’ll need to go back and listen in my Lyr3 to see if my impression was correct. For example, in my Lyr3 I just noticed enjoyable warmth, but perhaps I wasn’t paying attention to anything else at the time. Or maybe the difference is due to the Elise being more capable overall and contrasting any nuances in tube capabilities…

Also, these are my first impressions so they may change, but I feel pretty satisfied with those other tubes in general. Regarding evaluation of specific frequencies like the mid range, I’ll definitely need more listening time.

Would be great to hear your impressions as well wherever you may land. Happy listening!

Thank you again! I am debating on a few driver tubes. I was set on getting the Ray Tube Select, but after reading your assessment, I will likely hold off. I read glowing reviews of the Linlai Global Elite E6sn7, so may end up ordering a pair before the weekend is over. I may also order socket savers. That's actually something I have not yet considered. I will keep you (and everyone else who ventures to read this thread) of what I ended up ordering. The Ray Tubes Reserves have also received fantastic reviews, but it is a pretty steep price imo.

Edit: Well, I ordered and received the Psvane Horizon Series CV181-AT matched pair from the Psvane store on Amazon. Burned them in for about 4 hours so far. I have to say, they are sound nicer than the stock tubes provided in the Elise. Add more bass and more texturing. My HD6xx and DT 880 (600 ohm) sound overall better. I feel that the definition on the stock tubes (Psvane UK) provided for more detail in the higher end especially, but I appreciate the "tubey" sound with the CV181-AT. One reviewer said to burn them in for about 50 hours and the detail will start to kick in as well. So far, I like what I am hearing.

I will keep them in there for the next month and see how they turn out. I will likely consider the Ray Tubes Reserves next. For power tubes, I read that the Mullard 6080 NOS is very good. I looked at the price and my goodness...

 

[spruce]

Thank you again! I am debating on a few driver tubes. I was set on getting the Ray Tube Select, but after reading your assessment, I will likely hold off. I read glowing reviews of the Linlai Global Elite E6sn7, so may end up ordering a pair before the weekend is over. I may also order socket savers. That's actually something I have not yet considered. I will keep you (and everyone else who ventures to read this thread) of what I ended up ordering. The Ray Tubes Reserves have also received fantastic reviews, but it is a pretty steep price imo.

Edit: Well, I ordered and received the Psvane Horizon Series CV181-AT matched pair from the Psvane store on Amazon. Burned them in for about 4 hours so far. I have to say, they are sound nicer than the stock tubes provided in the Elise. Add more bass and more texturing. My HD6xx and DT 880 (600 ohm) sound overall better. I feel that the definition on the stock tubes (Psvane UK) provided for more detail in the higher end especially, but I appreciate the "tubey" sound with the CV181-AT. One reviewer said to burn them in for about 50 hours and the detail will start to kick in as well. So far, I like what I am hearing.

I will keep them in there for the next month and see how they turn out. I will likely consider the Ray Tubes Reserves next. For power tubes, I read that the Mullard 6080 NOS is very good. I looked at the price and my goodness...

Went back to listen to Apos Select after a little more settling in of these tubes which I think was an issue with my first impressions. I think I’m still having some trouble evaluating them because nothing in particular is standing out (I don’t hear anything wrong either) and perhaps that may be their strength. They seem to have a perfect balance of warmth, and solid technical abilities, giving them a laid back and somewhat effortless vibe which may also work well for vocals/mids although I recall the stock tubes may have staged larger.

I’d suggest reading as many reviews as possible, especially other than Apos reviews. People’s hearing, source chains, headphones, etc. vary widely which often leads to different assessments.

Edit: liking the Apos select warm vibe with more burn in. Also, do not think you can go wrong with Linlai tubes. The ZX-6SN7 sound nice. Perhaps more treble definition then their other 6SN7’s from my memory. Have less than 10 hours on them but they sound balanced, not cold or warm, and articulate.

 

[kuttisrank]

Excited to kick off my tube rolling experiments with my Feliks envy. Had some discussions with some great souls here in PM and planning to buy western electric 300b from tubesrs website. As driver tubes eyeing on getting Melz 1578. My chain is Mola Mola Tambaqui->Feliks Audio envy performance with stock tubes->Raal Immanis. All kinds of inputs and suggestions are welcome. Also would like to know from where it is suggested buying authentic tubes.

 

[Charade19]

Tube rolling the power tubes, Gold Lion Genelax KT 88 (adapters) via courtesy of @Deyan. A few hours and adds more depth. Pleasant listening experience.

 

[spruce]

Nice! I was considering KT 88 tubes for this amp but upscale audio advised otherwise. It sounds like it’s safe, but I am being extremely cautious. For example, don’t want to take a chance with voiding the warranty.

Decided to also try the Psvane Horizon Series CV181 too before tariffs may kick in.

Are you perceiving any changes in the horizon tubes after more use?

 

[Charade19]

Nice! I was considering KT 88 tubes for this amp but upscale audio advised otherwise. It sounds like it’s safe, but I am being extremely cautious. For example, don’t want to take a chance with voiding the warranty.

Decided to also try the Psvane Horizon Series CV181 too before tariffs may kick in.

Are you perceiving any changes in the horizon tubes after more use?

The bass has more definition and depth with the KT88s. It adds more separation in the lower end. The amp is definitely "opening" up. The staging sounds larger and more tonal separation protrudes forward with each listening session.

I definitely prefer the Horizon Series CV181 as compared to the stock Psvane UK driver tubes. The latter sounded a little peaky to my ears in the upper end. The CV181's toned it down. The CV181, now with about 50 hours in, sounds more detailed and resolving. The separation has also improved a little bit. It is also adding a little bit more of clarity - so in a way a little more solid state like.

I should receive a matched pair of NOS Sylvania Tall Boys 6SN7GTAs tomorrow. I cannot wait to try them. I want a little more of that analog warm sound as compared to what I am hearing now. When reading reviews, for price to performance the Sylvania will hopefully meet my wishes.

I hope to get my hands on a matched pair of Brimar 6SN& and saving some additional funds for that enterprise.

I also received additional adapters for 12AU7 --> 6SN7. I will get some Mullard and Brimars, and ascertain whether there will be further changes.

I am really loving this amp. Paired up with my multibit DAC on NOS mode, I am loving it.

Have you noticed any further changes with the Ray Tubes?

 

[spruce]

Thanks. Have not had time yet as I’ve been switching other new 6SN7 tubes in and out to get a taste of each.

I’m not convinced those rare tubes are as good or better than the new generation tubes such as Linlai or the Psvane Art Series. I assume a lot of what you’re paying for is the “rarity” for example. Kinda similar to my skepticism around cost/performance of tubes with middle men sellers/marketers/distributors like APOS. Although as I mentioned, the Ray Tubes are quite good thus far (have that nice warm tube sound) but perhaps not as technically adept or articulate as the Linlai’s for example. You may really like the Rays!

I heard the horizons were somewhat dry but I get those on Tuesday. It sounds like you may be describing some similar sound characteristics.

Also, Focal Clear seems to pair very well with Elise and can be had at a reduced price these days. It may be worth considering your headphones first depending on your budget.

Those KT88’s sound great. Crazy what chat gpt can do as I asked about this with the following result:

—————————————-

While using KT88 tubes with a Feliks Elise amplifier is generally possible, it's not without potential risks and considerations. The Feliks Elise and Euforia are designed for specific tubes, and using non-standard tubes like KT88s requires adapters and may impact the amplifier's performance and lifespan.

Elaborating on the risks and considerations:

• Power Handling:
  KT88 tubes have a higher power output than the tubes originally intended for the Feliks Elise. While this might seem beneficial, it can put extra strain on the amplifier's components, potentially shortening their lifespan or even causing damage if the amplifier's power supply can't handle the increased load.
• Sound Quality:
  The sound signature of the Feliks Elise is optimized for the stock tubes. Switching to KT88s can alter the sound significantly, potentially leading to a different tonal balance, reduced sweetness, or a less natural sound, especially for some headphones.
• Adapter Quality:
  Using third-party conversion adapters is a necessity for KT88s, but the quality of these adapters is crucial. Poorly constructed adapters can introduce noise, interference, or even damage the amplifier if they don't make proper contact or have incorrect wiring.
• Warranty:
  Using non-stock tubes can void the amplifier's warranty.

In summary:
Using KT88 tubes with a Feliks Elise is a potential modification that can change the amplifier's sound and lifespan. While it's not inherently unsafe, users should be aware of the risks and take precautions, such as using high-quality adapters and consulting with the manufacturer for advice.

 

[Charade19]

Chat GP has a very interesting take on the use of KT88 tubes with the Elise ii.

The delivery of the NOS Sylvania was delayed. I hope to receive them tomorrow. I anticipate about 50 hours of burn in with the tubes to get a good flare. I shall keep you posted.