More to come as it continues to settle in and I try more things!
I guess I should provide an update. I took the Linlai E-6SN7 Balloon all the way to 100 hours before ending the burn-in process, but that was some weeks ago. Since then I've just been enjoying it. Truthfully not much changed since the 40 hour mark.
Switching back to my old standby, the shouldered glass Psvane 6SN7 w/black plates, it's definitely a touch more forward and immediate. For half the price, it's a really good option. It is stirring and engaging, and still sounds really good to my ears.
But what I pretty quickly notice after having gotten used to the Linlai is the treble is quite a bit more hot on the Psvane. For the Arya Stealth it's really just a pinch too much for some genres. AC/DC's Hells Bells was downright fatiguing.
Now back to the Linlai with the same song, and the treble is MUCH better controlled. More airy, too. The whole thing is pulled back a little, but you get a MUCH larger-seeming presentation. The space is larger, both in forward depth as well as height (which is one of those little tricks the Arya has), and that space is filled with more present reverb from the recording. Instruments get a little more cleaner separation too.
What the Linlai balloon does so well is give you those elements of refinement, but you still get the engagement. I wouldn't get as immersed with the Tung-Sol despite also having a larger, cleaner soundstage, but the Linlai retains more of the dynamics, more of the lowend "oomph", and brings something enjoyable to every genre. It has warmth and a "true" tonality that other cleaner sounding tubes haven't had.
Highly recommended if you're willing to spend a little more!
