The Reference 6SN7 Thread

[LobalWarming]

I have some Melz from the 70s and 80s.

I find the 70s ones the most detailed tubes I have ever heard. Very clean and extremely extended. The 80s ones are a bit mellower. I have never found any of them bright but on my amp they are being balanced in conjunction with power tubes which will of course will make a difference. For example with WE 300B and their midrange focus they are amazing IMHO.

That's great! My 70s/80s versions are not clean - at least the famous soviet quality control worked out for your examples.

That said I've never heard the 50s ones.
I would certainly love to hear them but I've never seen them anywhere to purchase ever! unfortunately. Do let me know if you see any around .

My 50s 1578s provide an excellent, well-balanced listen. Purchased cheaply, long before that demented despot invaded his peaceful neighbour.

 

[WildPhydeaux]

long before that demented despot invaded his peaceful neighbour.

You and I may well experience something similar in the not too distant future...

Cheers,
Robert

 

[jmanpd]

Both are bested in soundstage presentation, detail and listening engagement by the lower cost twins from the DDT, 6J5/L63, 6C4 or EC86 families - in my opinion - which is the only opinion I have available at this time.

+1 for 6J5s.

Just got my dual 6J5 adapter. A quad of Sylvania 6J5GTs sounds better than the Tungsol BGRP, Sylvania 6SN7W metal bases, RCA Red 5692s, and Ken Rad VT231s that I've tried in my amp. YMMV but highly recommend exploring the adapter route.

 

[ShizzyGuo]

3D printed this stand for all my 6SN7's