[Kfdet]

The unit has been sold.

The KGHV GG is basically a KGSSHV Carbon with tubes. Some people prefer solid state amps. However, tubes usually last very long and the tube sound gives another nuance in sound.
Due to my personal experience I can highly recommend soren_brix as a builder.
My DIY T2 is still under construction. So I cannot yet answer the question.

 

[Killerb]

I know this has been dormant for a while but I am almost ready to pull the trigger on a GG from Soren and I wanted to see if any owners can give me an update on long-term reliability of the GG and lifespan of EL34 tubes. I have some NOS Mullard, and Svetlana for my speaker amp and Genalex KT77 that came with the amp that I plan to use. I have a 009 and 007 MK2 that I will be using with the energizer. Any insight would be appreciated.

 

[phaeton70]

I have a KGGG from Soren since 5 years, using it almost daily, never a problem. Highly recommended.
I have tried few tubes, including Siemens and Mullard NOS, and my preferred in terms of cost/perf are the JJ 6CA7, followed by the SED =C=. but it will also depend on your preferred sound sig, SED are less "warm" but more transparent and detailed, while JJ are more relaxed and smooth.
if you have money to spend, then grab the Mullard XF2 NOS, best I have heard. Siemens NOS are close, but less engaging than Mullard.
I'm using a 009 and a JadeII

 

[Killerb]

I have a KGGG from Soren since 5 years, using it almost daily, never a problem. Highly recommended.
I have tried few tubes, including Siemens and Mullard NOS, and my preferred in terms of cost/perf are the JJ 6CA7, followed by the SED =C=. but it will also depend on your preferred sound sig, SED are less "warm" but more transparent and detailed, while JJ are more relaxed and smooth.
if you have money to spend, then grab the Mullard XF2 NOS, best I have heard. Siemens NOS are close, but less engaging than Mullard.
I'm using a 009 and a JadeII

Thanks for the insight. I think that seals the deal and Soren will be receiving a bank transfer from me shortly.

 

[Killerb]

I have a KGGG from Soren since 5 years, using it almost daily, never a problem. Highly recommended.
I have tried few tubes, including Siemens and Mullard NOS, and my preferred in terms of cost/perf are the JJ 6CA7, followed by the SED =C=. but it will also depend on your preferred sound sig, SED are less "warm" but more transparent and detailed, while JJ are more relaxed and smooth.
if you have money to spend, then grab the Mullard XF2 NOS, best I have heard. Siemens NOS are close, but less engaging than Mullard.
I'm using a 009 and a JadeII

Does the JJ 6CA7 sound different than the EL34?

 

[phaeton70]

Does the JJ 6CA7 sound different than the EL34?

yes, at least to my ears and with my gears. EL34 are slightly more detailed, 6CA7 are more full-bodied.

 

[Killerb]

yes, at least to my ears and with my gears. EL34 are slightly more detailed, 6CA7 are more full-bodied.

Thanks. I may order a quad of JJ 6CA7 when I get my KGGG, prices are reasonable compared to NOS as you noted but going up $140 nowadays.

 

[Kfdet]

I had good experience with the KG GG using the Psvane 6CA7-T-MII. They sounded very organic with high resolution and very nice tonal colors. Also, they are reasonably priced.

 

[jjshin23]

Selling my KGGG here. https://www.head-fi.org/classifieds/fs-kggg-soren-build.60415/