Shootout of Nos 6sn7 tubes

[Re-tread]

Pardon the delay... finally, I can give an update on my 6SN7 trek.

Baseline refresher: for this post, I have replaced my NOS 1950's Tungsram 6SN7GT (cited above in entry # 272) with my recently acquired 1940's Sylvania VT-231 6SN7GT (image below) in the input section of my custom Blue Circle NSC preamp.



Sonic impressions: when I initially installed the Syl VT-231, it was very "crispy" in the highs; however, over the next 2-weeks it settled-in nicely (i.e., the crispy highs mellowed just a bit), leaving the following impressions: moving from the Tungsram, the Syl VT-231 reveals more high frequency information, enabling more musical details to come forth in the upper frequencies. But that's not all: I also detect that the body in the mids may be just a tad less "thick", meaning: I think the Syl VT-231 has also reduced some (previously undetected) "over exuberance" (noise?) in the mids, and my system now presents a slightly cleaner holographic scene in my musical landscape (soundscape). In hindsight, I like the overall small (nuanced) adjustment the VT-231 has introduced (brought forth). Thus, this tube is taking my system in a positive direction that suits my preferences towards my "ideal" sound. In contrast, I feel there is no sonic downside with this move (from what I like in my system, of course). Meaning, I am truly enjoying my music more! In conclusion, I like it very much!

Thus, here is the ranking of my very limited trial population (in order of preference), so far:

1. 1940's Slyvania VT-231 6SN7 GT
2. 1950's Tungsram 6SN7 GT
3. 1950's Sylvania "grey glass" 6SN7 GT
4. 2010's Electro-Harmonix 6SN7 GT (which came stock with the preamp)

The essential 6SN7 that still peaks my interest to try is the 1940's TungSol VT-231 6SN7 GT.

That's all for now.

Re-tread

 

[JBLprofan]

Hello, just curious, I just ordered the Linlai ZX-6SN7 which are "Supposed" to be better than the E-6SN7, that there are so many positive reviews about. I am wondering is there anyone on this forum that has done a direct comparison of the two? I am currently running PSVane CV-181-TII which to me sound very good, but I want to try these new ZX tubes. Thanks for your replies!

 

[DetroitVinylRob]

Hello, just curious, I just ordered the Linlai ZX-6SN7 which are "Supposed" to be better than the E-6SN7, that there are so many positive reviews about. I am wondering is there anyone on this forum that has done a direct comparison of the two? I am currently running PSVane CV-181-TII which to me sound very good, but I want to try these new ZX tubes. Thanks for your replies!

From Linlai: “ZX-6SN7 uses its own polymer composite spraying process which can quickly adsorb escaping electrons and effectively protect the glass shell from escaping electron bombardment.Enhancing the stability of the vacuum tube and making the music background peaceful and natural.”

Apparently, this is the black band on the bottle.

I have not heard any impressions on the sonic character of this creature yet. Always curious

 

[DetroitVinylRob]

Pardon the delay... finally, I can give an update on my 6SN7 trek.

Baseline refresher: for this post, I have replaced my NOS 1950's Tungsram 6SN7GT (cited above in entry # 272) with my recently acquired 1940's Sylvania VT-231 6SN7GT (image below) in the input section of my custom Blue Circle NSC preamp.

View attachment 138465

Sonic impressions: when I initially installed the Syl VT-231, it was very "crispy" in the highs; however, over the next 2-weeks it settled-in nicely (i.e., the crispy highs mellowed just a bit), leaving the following impressions: moving from the Tungsram, the Syl VT-231 reveals more high frequency information, enabling more musical details to come forth in the upper frequencies. But that's not all: I also detect that the body in the mids may be just a tad less "thick", meaning: I think the Syl VT-231 has also reduced some (previously undetected) "over exuberance" (noise?) in the mids, and my system now presents a slightly cleaner holographic scene in my musical landscape (soundscape). In hindsight, I like the overall small (nuanced) adjustment the VT-231 has introduced (brought forth). Thus, this tube is taking my system in a positive direction that suits my preferences towards my "ideal" sound. In contrast, I feel there is no sonic downside with this move (from what I like in my system, of course). Meaning, I am truly enjoying my music more! In conclusion, I like it very much!

Thus, here is the ranking of my very limited trial population (in order of preference), so far:

1. 1940's Slyvania VT-231 6SN7 GT
2. 1950's Tungsram 6SN7 GT
3. 1950's Sylvania "grey glass" 6SN7 GT
4. 2010's Electro-Harmonix 6SN7 GT (which came stock with the preamp)

The essential 6SN7 that still peaks my interest to try is the 1940's TungSol VT-231 6SN7 GT.

That's all for now.

Re-tread

The 1940’s something Sylvania VT-231 (6SN7GT) in my gear and to my ears are an absolute favorite in this house. Especially with my OTLs. The extended upper frequencies imbue a lovely, more three dimensionally realistic soundstage, more air, out of most every recording. For me, the is huge. All smiles here.

Depending on the circuit and system balance, your mileage may vary

 

[JBLprofan]

Well my Linlai ZX-6SN7's arrived and I do have to say I am VERY impressed with the initial sound, right out of the box. Right out of the box they bested my PSVane CV181-Tii . I have about 20 hours on them so far and have not really noticed any change in the sound yet. Immediately they were MUCH more airy and open in the upper midrange and treble, that is where I have noticed the most difference. My PSVane CV181's literally took 300 hours to sound their best, so it will be interesting to see if there is any change in the ZX's. Also these are dead silent so far too in my system, but my speakers are not overly sensitive 92 db. I will keep you guys posted!