Headphone Valve (20mA, gain about 20)

Posted by Mike C (A) on June 29, 2020 at 02:02:19

A few weeks ago I asked for suggestions for a triode of the above spec for my headphone amp (single ended, single stage, which is why I need some gain). This is to replace parallel 12SN7 which do sound good.

Thanks for the many suggestions.
I tried the 7044 as it was an easy change, which worked well and sounded good, but even after running in I wasn't sure it was significantly better. I think the sound was slightly fuller than the 12SN7, but very little in it.

So I looked further into 4P1L.
In the process, I found the single-ended web site which has a lot of good things to say about the EL3n when triode connected, such as beautiful sound and DHT like character.
I then found that the EL33 is the same valve with octal base and this made it easy to change another spare amp over. So I went for EL33 in triode mode. As a quick and easy temporary fix, I ran the EL33 heaters in series from the 12.6V supply that was in there for the 12SN7s.
Very good result!
I can't think what it doesn't do excellently. Transparency and detail are very good, improved over both 12SN7 and 7044, and with smoothness. Midrange is special, with lovely vocals - spine tingly. Bass is tight. Tonality superb, excellent character to instruments; definite improvement over the 12SN7 and 7044.
So for me, this valve is a winner. It does seem very like a DHT sound to me.

I am still considering the 4P1L. The EML20 seems perfect - but it's just too big, won't fit my cabinet. (Might just fit if mounted horizontally but I'm concerned at doing that to a very expensive valve).

Anyway, thanks guys; with your help I've got where I want to be (for now at least).

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Topic - Headphone Valve (20mA, gain about 20) - Mike C 02:02:19 06/29/20 (3)

Great outcome. I'm enjoying your adventures. Nt - 91derlust 02:19:54 07/01/20 (0)

Have you tried substituting a 6V6? - andy evans 06:01:15 06/30/20 (1)

RE: Have you tried substituting a 6V6? - Mike C 15:03:45 06/30/20 (0)

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