At $29.99 these are the least expensive tubes available for my preamp, and yes, I most definitely want(ed) to know what the new EH tubes sound like in comparison to the Philips NOS tubes made in the 1970’s.
I still like the Philips tubes the most. The Gold Lions are nice, but also a little too warm sounding that takes away some of the cleanness of the GAT-S2. The EH has a bit less magic than the Gold Lions, but also seem less warm than the Gold Lions (in a good way). I need to spend more time listening, but my first impression is that I am happy with the EH tubes.
I’ve a couple of pair as safety valves. OK in a pinch. If you are looking for 6922 tubes let me know, I have many unused and lightly used. Ediswan are a sweet sounding tube. Matsushita 7DJ8 are the BEST sounding reasonably priced tube. Stay away from JJ, I call ‘em firecrackers! Sovtek are ok in the right preamp, but not in a cj.
My amps came today! They are a lot bigger in real life than in pictures! I have to put them on the floor so now I have to spend another $10k on amp stands, oh well. The moment I turned them on, I knew this is a whole new presentation in sound production than my old stereo amp! The sound is bigger, bolder, more dense, more nuanced, more realistic and powerful bass reproduction, separation and air, it’s just more there. Feels like my speakers grew in size and resolution. Yes, these Esoteric M1 mono’s are really that good!
The Japanese believes the heavier they are the better they sound. My brother heard these monos and now he’s looking to replace his BHK 250 to BHK 300 monos. Thanks for the nice comment Al, especially coming from you.
The bass is amazing with the subwoofers. The rest is amazing with the MBLs. The B&Ws were really good. But the MBLs are better. Fast, holographic, high resolution. Like a private concert for you.
