A few updated pictures of the new system, its night and I couldn't get good lighting to get a whole system shot, but its around the corner. Overall I am very pleased with this system its a huge downgrade from where I've been and its lower resolution allows me to forget about being an audiophile and enjoy music. While I have no complaints I have little doubt I will be playing with the big boys again in the not so distant future. I am planning on moving with in 2 years and at that time I will search for a better listening environment in my home and build a more SOTA system. At this time I just like the flexibility this system offers, it does everything good and has no real weakness, I feel all the components represent tremendous value, which is why they were chosen.
Ive rejoined the Stingray crowd again! An audio buddy locally sold me his 4 month old unit with triode switch and sub out. He recommended JJ El84's and they sound superb. Also put some RCA 60's 12AT7 from Andy @ Vintagetube. Very solid sounding on my 91db Ushers
How's the sound up your way with the Db99 MkII's? Ken
I checked to see if I saved it in my sent mail...and did delete it unfortunately, so Ill basically say a few words via this thread.
You have some excellent PC's in the Jena Tek..and that's a safe recommendation. As far as tube rolling the SR..I found that the supplied by Manley Ei EL-84's were very good in themselves. You could change out to the more lush sounding Mullards from the 50's. Another nice tube is the Tungsram (yellow print) ..that is more transparent and linear sounding overall, but not as warm in the mids. I have not heard the GE tubes here.
For the 6414 driver tubes..best to leave them as is..as theres very little to be gain there sonically.
As for the 12AT7 inputs..here is where a few bucks spent can make this a great amp.I used some earlier production GE 6201 tubes rather than the newer JAN 12AT7W's that are supplied. In this amp..the highs smoothed out and focus increased. The mids became more textured and weighty..all with a simple input tube change!
I suggest you contact Andy at Vintagetube.com for his recommendation on the inputs (and power tubes while your at it) he knows from experience the best application of tubes for many different amps. I spoke with another Audiogon member during my time with the SR..and he mentioned that he was using Telefunken Superline and it was wonderful sounding tube. RCA superline 50's are nice also. Go with the 50's dated input tubes as they will sound the best IMO.//Ken
I see you went with the Manley Stingray afterall...I wasn't sure since our email exchange regarding the Manley.( I hope you got it??) Anyway..very nice! A good friend is using the Manley on a pair of Zu Druids and loves the sound..Im anxious to hear it.
I miss mine at times. I bet it is a very good match with the DB99 MkII's.
Congrats again, and enjoy..looking forward to the new pics!
