Tubes Asylum: Re: EL34,ECC88 and ECC 82 advice needed...retubing by ehider

The KT-77s are my current favorite El-34 type, even when compared to XF-1's or XF-2's! They are more linear top to bottom and have less errant frequency colorations that any other EL-34 that I have ever autioned. They are more extended sonically on both frequency ends and sometimes remind me more of the best top tier solid state, but still offer more tube warmth too mind you. They are not nearly as euphonic or syrupy in their midrange as some other EL-34's types. If you are looking for a euphonic and engaging midrange, I personally feel that the original SED's are the best new offerings for this sort of sound, but they won't have the dynamics, linearity or the extention of the KT-77's . (BTW: When I say "SED", this is a different EL-34 tube than the current "Svetlana" label, which some people confuse on being the same EL-34 tube as the "SED"). IMO the JJ's are a very decent entry level tube (particularly the L version) with good dynamic jump factor and an engaging musical balance. But I definately find that they are a couple levels down soncially as compared with SED (or the KT-77s). The one thing I found after getting my hands on the new KT-77's is that all other EL-34s have a mid base hump, or perhaps a "bloat", that although can be engaging, is anything but neutral and definately a minor sonic issue with the EL-34 tube design (yes, even the XF-1 and XF-2's have this charactaristic). Perhaps this is why some have labeled the new KT-77 the "super El-34" ?