Putting a Tube Preamp to the Test

[@andrewvigil2040]

I've been waiting for thissss

[@Toid]

I knew you were. I hope it does not disappoint

[@Toid]

In fact, your comment made the video @ kzbin.info/www/bejne/hnWbpGZ4fLmpnaM

[@TheTruth70777]

@@Toid man, do you think I can use this as a guitar amplifier ?

[@thesupergamermario3701]

@@Toid 9kkjjjiiikkkkkkkkt9uu IP trtt9ft8998e fer r4uty99ott68o9ooof

[@thesupergamermario3701]

@@Toid o9r49

[@snuffpappy]

I have the SUCA version of this pre-amp. (same product, different name?) I'm floored by how much definition it releases from recordings. I'm hearing new details and dynamics from things I've listened to for decades. Its like having my entire collection "remastered". Don't over think it - just buy it. A perk of this product is the included power supply. Lots of electronic devices don't come with them and youre looking at $20 -$30 just for that. So its really a steal. Also, DON'T think of this just as a PC or desk top add on. It is part of my (fairly high end) main music system and the improvement is stunning.

[@popculture70]

I highly recommend this preamp. I find it improves separation and adds sparkle and punch to the sound. As with all cheap Chi-Fi products, I would recommend getting a better power supply for it. It's also worth experimenting with different tubes.

[@makarov138]

I currently have a tube buffer amp plugged into the effects loop in my amp. Mine uses 6N3 or 5670 tubes. The amp adds that warm sound I like. These things do work!

[@adamziolkowski2549]

I put it in front of a 1972 Kenwood KR 6200. A great vintage receiver, but this makes it solid gold...

[@shanec6664]

Is it a good buy ?? Was looking for one in front of my Sansui AU-D22

[@andrejsgulins3023]

How do you connect that?

[@jjdayton]

I have one of these (branded Senucn Audio). It’s great for adding tone controls and I do enjoy the warmer sound. The only negative is, if turned up more than half way it adds distortion. I just leave the volume at one third.

[@OliviD22]

I use this as a preamp on my sound card when I use Guitar vst plugins such as Bias Fx. Very good way to achieve tube warmth with digital guitar plugins. I replaced the stock tubes with GE 5654.

[@alexdenton6586]

And the sound is really better and warmer or just louder ?

[@reidjames6]

@@alexdenton6586 when you upgrade tubes it can have a very drastic effect. Especially with budget amps with budget tubes

[@legendfranzo]

can you explain the chain? how do you connect everything?

[@TheCinderDude]

@@legendfranzo guitar line in - preamp - interface in - DAW

[@TheCinderDude]

*sound card line in not interface in his case oops

[@indridcold4210]

I have the same unit and have done some tube rolling with the GE 5654W(matched pair with no date stamp by Riverstone), and old USSR 6J1P-EV, 6J3P-E, and 6J38P tubes NOS from ebay sellers in Ukraine. GE 5654W was good. 6J1P-EV were somewhat similar but a bit better with much better upper mids and highs. The 6J1P-EV(date 1983) took about 120 hours of operation to really sound their best as different tubes take different times to burn in and stabilize their sound signature. The 6J3P-E(date 1985) were very warm and lacking treble, but had very nice vocals. The 6J38P(date 1975) had a lot of detail in the mids and highs, but a grainy texture in those frequencies that I associate with more odd order harmonics. I found the 6J1P-EV(Voskhod factory) to be the best by far of the one's I tested. The China made tubes that came with my unit had tube sound, but were not tubes I would listen to every often and were the worst tubes I have tested with fairly poor quality midrange volume and detail.

[@davidshearer567]

Very good review! I have been contemplating buying one these for awhile. Building these mini-stereo systems seems like fun! Thanks for the motivation!

[@TheLaughingOtter]

Great review! I just ordered one of these for a temporary fix for my vintage system. My Kenwood Ka5002 recently lost it's right channel and because it's intermittent it may take awhile to get back from my repair guy. So, I've run my turntable, reel to reel deck and other components through my KW Kf8011 Audio Denoiser and will use this little preamp as a link between the audio denoiser and my power amp. Should work great, looking forward to hearing it. Thanks again for the great video!

[@BudgetAudioChrono]

Thank you! This is so helpful! I had no idea how much gain there was on the FX Audio Tube 03(exactly the same as this unit). Appreciate this video with the omni mic measurement.

[@zelenizub2036]

I am using fx audio version of this preamp with 5654w tubes, audiosource two amp and Elac unifi ub5. Grat sounding setup even at low volume. I wish audiosource would remake model two... Also with this setup I am using fx audio dac x6 and Bluetooth receiver muse 02 not only sounds good but looks like milion dollars...

[@Toid]

That's great to hear! Sounds like a nice setup

[@buzzcrushtrendkill]

It's been found that some of these are actually using OP-amps, the tubes are not in the signal path. Take the tubes out and check if the unit is still working or open it up and look at the circuitry for op amps. The power of inference is strong in the audio world "tubes , so it must have a warm vintage sound".

[@pietermol8508]

I did remove the tubes and it stopped working. But I agree with you, this device doesn't do what people think it does. If you set it up in a properly configured double blind listening test, there will be no difference whatsoever. On a side note, a year ago I bought BD DT880 cans to replace my 1996 Sennheiser HD465. I heard so much more details with the DT880. Then I put the HD465 back on again, and all the details were there too. My guess is that I was hearing more detail in the DT880, simply because I was paying more attention ;-)

[@davidcurry8440]

Great review! My sentiments are the same, I was skeptical and surprised by this unit. I bought one of these two years ago and at that time there weren't too many videos on Chi-Fi equipment. I was pretty impressed with this unit and had upgraded the tubes to GE tubes. I have this connected to a Nobsound 6P1 tube power amplifier and the sound is fine for me as this is a third backup/playground setup. I thought..."thought"...I was going to replace the T1 (same as the A3 but rebranded) with the Monoprice Pure Tube amp which has EL-84 tubes for $300. Unfortunately the Monoprice Pure Tube amp didn't work out for me because of an annoying hum. The hum persisted with only speakers plugged in, no components, no volume. So I returned it and have gone back to the T-1.

[@ColettaHughes]

The very first thing I noticed about that preamp is how unstable it was below 60Hz, maybe you have a loop going? but if not that amp sucks. Next, you don't want to hear tubes in the higher Hz range, digital is much more precise and cleaner sounding. My first record player at 9 years old when the Beatles ruled the charts was a tube record player, it was a big heavy square wooden box that my dad only picked up and moved around for me. It and my bedside alarm clock radio both sounded so warm and they both had tubes. I few years later when I was about 13 my big brother gave me his old Fisher tube Preamplifier, tube stereo amp and Dual 1225 turntable. To this day that Fisher is the warmest stereo I've ever owned. Now that I've qualified myself. It's not the highs you check in a tube amp of any kind, it's the warm and deep bass notes that roll so softly. Sadly most of the modern music you guys play today will sound like crap on a tube amp. Your music is very harsh, sharp hitting and cold, the digital bass and drums, in everything from the early 80's to modern rap has been digitally created and mastered. Stick with your cold digital amps, they'll server your needs much better than a muddy old tube amp of any kind. Sorry for being so harsh about it, but I grew up hearing tube amps of all kinds. I'm also a musician with a few vintage tube amps. Peace.

[@tranhueminh3901]

me too.

[@badnewsbruner]

I disagree, everything sounds better through tubes.

[@stevenholt5484]

@@badnewsbruner If tubes are so great, why don't they make tube televisions anymore?

[@badnewsbruner]

@@stevenholt5484 size, convenience, maintenance, PRICE.

[@stevenholt5484]

@@badnewsbruner You forgot to mention low power, high distortion and poor sonic signature. If they sold, Sony and Yamaha would make one. THEY DON'T.

[@humanitech]

Some of these little tube preamps are really fab and great value for the money ...but with a little extra tinkering, experimenting and upgrading - with better tubes, internal opamps or internal components or external power supplies etc - can be made to sound even more impressive and surprising good - for very little money even after upgrading a few bits and bobs! I got the FX audio 03 which looks identical. and got some different/better (?) Voskhod and RCA tubes, then tried and upgraded the two internal (plug in and play) dip8 opamps...but then took them out completely....Which meant the unit works as a pure tube amp circuit now. But of course without the tone adjustment or volume control features (which the two opamps are used to control and regulate). So all in all, these are a great little units and very versatile way to get some sweet tube warmth, space and niceness, ...and have some further sonic fun playing around - at very little costs and outlay. Just dont be put off by the poor original chinese tubes that come with these units ....although even these do sound a little better / sweeter after a burn in period of a week or so!. It seems only real negative is that these amps or circuits are build on a budget so internal components can be improved ...but also the circuit designed reduce power to the tubes so technically they aren't working or operating at their best or optimum parameters....so are just ticking over. But still sound great!

[@randomthoughts2589]

Great info here. I wondered if you could suggest me what could possibly be the causes of the Aiyima T7 starts to lose sound on left speaker. I’ve changed the tubes, switched the RCA-in cables, changed the cables, and changed the music sources, the preamp/speaker yield no sound on the left speaker. I can be sure that the both speakers work fine. But I completely have no idea what’s wrong and how to fix it. Hoping you could help. Thanks in advance.

[@humanitech]

@@randomthoughts2589 hmmm...looking at the circuit your Ayima T7 it look similar to the FX Audio 03 ...have you just tried swapping the left and right tubes to see if the fault moves over to the other speaker...if so ..then its definitely the tube and the circuit is good 😊...but if the problem is remains in the same speaker ... then it means there is an issue with the circuit, either a component failure, ot bad solder joint or maybe an issues with the internal RCA solder/wiring (?). If it was a slow declining loss of volume in one speaker but there is still audible sound ...its likely to like a component failure. It shouldn't be the opamps ...as they only deal with tone and volume adjustment - not left/right channel balance! That's about where my knowledge run out without checking and testing. Good luck

[@randomthoughts2589]

@@humanitech thanks for your response. I tried swapping the tubes as well. The left speaker still has no sound. Pulling my hair here. :(

[@randomthoughts2589]

@@humanitech Anyway? I really appreciate your time answering my question. Thank you!

[@AllboroLCD]

The "true" function/use of this unit is to be plugged into a receiver/console with "Pre-Out Pre-In" connections. Thank you for the review, at least I know now it is a "legit" product. They also sell these specific units non-assembled as kits. Im considering the kit version so I can use my own HQ capacitors & tubes. I would LOVE to see a re-review of the unit with all high grade components in it!

[@endall39]

It would be interesting if you got some of the more popular European tubes and ran the same test, plus listening test comparison. Also, would be great if the made a raw board version of this with remote mountable knobs. I’d love to build this into a bluetooth speaker and display the tubes somehow. Thanks for the great video!

[@Toid]

I was thinking about doing a build with something like this. i think that would be awesome as well.

[@makarov138]

A matched pair of 5654W tubes will make that puppy sound beautiful!!

You should also do a small listening test. In my experience, those small tube amps degrades my HiFi. I loose details, and they sound simple compared :/ But they look cool with the tubes 😎

[@darrens7603]

which one did you try?

[@robertstier8472]

First time I’m seeing you on KZbin and I want you know I really enjoyed it.… I’m a home theater guy and I’ve conquered that mountain, but I’m very disappointed in my CD sound from my system.… I share this with you because this video was very helpful to me.… However, how can you possibly put this out without making at least one comment about how it sounds? Although I guess because you didn’t think much of the tools that came with it that could change things a lot.… I know about two bands from being a professional bass player, and I miss the overtones and lack of warmth that I’m getting from my CDs.… OK good luck I’m gonna go check out your other vids. Yours truly Robin New Jersey

[@michaelpowell4823]

Sound is subjective. Change tubes = sound change (it being the first video you have seen of his how could you trust his ear to begin with?.) This is why the testing is more important than how he "feels" it sounds in this case. I could give you my glasses and say they are the clearest glasses with less glare than any other pair I have ever worn. Doesn't mean anything because your eyes are different. Hearing is the same.

[@Toid]

Robin, you are right, I missed adding the warmth it sounded like. I guess I assumed too much there. I have a new preamp video coming out of this big brother, because of this comment, I made sure to hit that point. I appreciate the feeback

[@gobeyondnow]

@@Toid Dittos to Roberts comment about not describing whether there was any noticeable change in the overall quality of the sound. Your test measurement indicates a near perfect match to the non preamped sound so where is that magical tube sound? Is it really just imaginary? I looked but didn't find the update you mention.

[@incorporeal3793]

Well, that review answered a few pre-amp questions I had. I may now go and get myself one.

[@pa_maj.MARTINI-van-MAN]

I just got this buffer a week ago ( Bluetooth version but same ). Nice clean no noise buffer. Chinese tubes didn't sound any different than the 6ZH1P-EV Voskhod NOS after I ran them in a while. I've ran the 6ZH1P-EV in with around 120 hours so far but to be honest I don't hear a difference. My imagination, placebo effect, bias has to take a back seat lol. I have my PC running two sets of rca cables, one straight to receiver and one through the buffer to the receiver so I can switch quickly between both. I have four different matched pairs of tubes coming soon so I hope to feel some warmth, tube effect and better imaging or I might as well find another use for it, like the bedroom. That's why I got the Bluetooth version, if all else fails the Bluetooth capabilities will be handy in the bedroom but could have Bluetoothed cheaper than this without my wife's knickers catching fire 🙃 I have a hybrid amp, a fatman in the spare room, nice and tubey, great imaging and warm sounding, I was hoping for similar with this but not yet, we shall see 👀 though! Perhaps through a different amp it may sound, well, different.

[@mr.spongylikeaboss4987]

It's not a buffer, it's a pre-amp with real tube plate voltage that will kill you. Trust me, it's not just using the tubes as buffers.

[@pietermol8508]

I read the reviews people posted, saying they heard a great difference, things as far better detail and improved soundstage. They are full of placebo shit. I tested the amp with a switchbox, so I could bypass it and switch back and forth fast and have a true comparison instantly. Set the volume control so that the voltage level out was same as in, thus getting unity gain. When using the 6K4 tubes that came with the amp, I heard ZERO difference! Only the balance is a little off center on the headphones (BD DT880 600 ohm), these tubes obviously aren't a matched pair. Got myself a matched pair of JAN5654W tube, was a bit difficult to set the volume control to arrive at unity gain, because of the detented volume control. This time there is a subtle difference in sound, but I do not hear more detail or changes in the soundstage. (note: if the volume is set on the position just below unity gain, sound is better when the unit is bypassed, when the volume is up one notch, and amplification is just a tiny bit above unity gain, it sounds better with the unit! Well, do we not know from all kinds of sources that "louder" is often perceived as "better"?) Because I believe the sound quality can not always be consciously perceived, I also did some "laid-back" listening tests, just letting the vibes do their magic, but again, I experience no difference, and certainly no such things as more details and improved soundstage. Fortunately Banggood sent me the tube-03 amp instead of the tube-01 that I ordered, and got my money back while they let me keep the tube-03. I do, however, understand that people honestly believe this thingy improves the sound: when I bought a pair of BD DT880 headphones, I was impressed to hear so much more details. Then I put on my old SH HD465 cans from 1996, and suddenly noticed that all the details were there too! Apparently buying a new pair of cans simply made me listen a bit better....

[@2wilbster]

I'm loving the actual testing! I hope you keep doing this.

[@Toid]

I'm happy to hear that you like it. I am planning on doing more of these. In fact, I have a 2.1 amplifier that I will be testing like this in just a few days. Stay tuned

[@thefloop2813]

most people set their preamp and leave it, then use the power amplifier or receiver to control the volume. Not having a remote with a preamp is not actually a con when the product being considered is just a preamp. A remote serves no purpose but coffee table clutter in this context. A preamps volume knob shouldn't affect the EQ curve, which you proved right here this one does not. Just set to the desired level, and forget. The MM phono preamp version of this product is absolutely fantastic as well. I dont care if the tubes are only driving an audio buffer when the damn thing sounds this good.

[@robertorodriguez2609]

still not many reviews of this preamp, i just got mine today, the GE tubes will arrive tomorrow. it would have made life simpler if the bass-treble controls had a flat position, i see that i'll have to set them flat by ear. if the bass control does its thing from 600 hz down that is crazy!!!! way too much of the frequency spectrum to be altered by a single control, if that is the way it works i need to find that flat bass position asap. i also find the treble effect zone of 1,000 to 2,000 hz somewhat low in the spectrum, i'm used to see that treble control works around 10,000 hz in most receivers. again, 1,000-2,000 is too large a chunk of the freq spectrum to be worked by a single control. have been listening to it for the last four or five hours, can't say i've heard a difference but i understand tubes take long to break in. i will set up a sound test with my cd player, comparing its analog output to its digital output going to a dac and then to this preamp. thanks for the review.

[@timschutte8310]

, I just got one of these last night off of Amazon. it's a Nobsound tube pre-amp, base-treebel-volume. caint wait to get it. going on my screen porch for my Pandora, cell phone, system. Polk rti-6.5 inch

[@jeffbriggs7022]

i am a budget entry level guy and appreciate your channel.I have NFJ&FX Audio tube preamp and enjoying,learning. I paid extra for GE USA tubes vs China . Reviews say makes a diff????

[@Toid]

I haven't tested the different tubes. However, from those I know, they swear by the GE tubes.

[@MikaelMurstam]

it's a preamp so the volume should be set and forget and then use your amp's volume control instead. Otherwise, you may end up amplifying a weak signal and thus noise.

[@mr.spongylikeaboss4987]

If your amplifier already has a volume control, it is an "integrated" amp, and you should not be using this pre-amp with it, anyways, A pre-amp is connected to a power amp.. power amps have no controls. You use a pre-amp to control volume and select sources.

[@amz_user_H]

@@mr.spongylikeaboss4987 what about warmth added by the bulbs? Doesnt it improve the sound?

[@CastIronEric]

@@amz_user_H that's what I thought too.. Should I just buy the T20 powered class D tube amp for my passive speakers?

[@tech4life884]

Amazon has the Pro version of this now. The Tube A3 Pro. Can you please review this new version and see if it's better or the same as the one you're reviewing now?.

[@FiglioBastardo]

Very cool review. What other goodies were in the package? Are there other pre amps like this you'd suggest that maybe offer what you didn't find in this one?

[@Toid]

I have a 2.1 board amp I plan to review thus weekend. Should be pretty cool

[@FiglioBastardo]

@@Toid oh ok! I'll keep my eyes peeled! Thanks. I love your channel buddy!

[@epi2045]

Awesome video. I have a similar tiny tube pre-amp (looks exactly the same but different brand) running with a BlueMe HD Bluetooth DAC as the source. Would you believe I have this connected to a $4,500, 92lb Mark Levinson amplifier and Magnepan planar speakers? I sold off my previous pre-amp and got this cheap pre-amp just to get by while I shop for a new pre-amp. However, I’m not shopping too hard because it actually works nicely. Amazing!

[@Thoughtflux]

Question: how can a "preamp" have a bass/treble boost? It would mean there is a cheap solid state chip in it - which will degrade the sound in your chain.. Am i right?

[@rodzalez3549]

Some people say these mini tube amps don’t really work and rhat the tubes are just there for show... this true?

[@AirohThird]

Would you recommend it to use with just a medium quality headphones hooked on a PC with no amp? I just got a Arcano SHP300 headphones and I'm in love with the thing but I wish I could get some more volume without expending too much. Thanks for sharing this information. Stay safe out there!

[@pietermol8508]

It's all between the ears! If you set up this pre-amp properly, with a switch box, and set the volume control so that output voltage matches input voltage, you will hear ABSOLUTELY NO DIFFERENCE between source and this pre-amp. I repeat: NO DIFFERENCE WHATSOEVER! Standard tubes or 5654W, doesn't matter. Test it yourself in a double blind test, taking your bias out of the equation. This little pre-amp is actually way too good to add that touch of analog warmth. And no, I am not crazy and there is nothing wrong with my ears.

[@cxmxc]

Amazing content keep it up 👍

[@multicyclist]

I bought one of those that looks identical except it was branded FX -Audio. I imagine at least a dozen companies that buy these from a Chinese company and just stick their name on it thousands of other Chinese products. Mine came with counterfeit NE5532 op Amps. Fortunately, it sockets, so I replaced the fake NE5532's with real NE5532's and instantly notice an improvement in sound quality. If you have ever measured the noise foor, frequency response, slew rate, etc. of a fake NE5532 you will see they have a higher noise floor and a poorer response. I had high hopes, but is the first and last time I will purchase another FX-Audio product or any of the cheap no name brands of compromised products. They are cheap but you get what you pay for.

[@dimmuborgir82]

Ive just ordered this pre amp myself which should go along with my smsl sa-60 nicely. This all will connect to the audio jack on my pc, would you recommend a dac to go along with this?

[@tribalskyes4838]

First things first NEVER touch the tubes with your fingers due the body oils on them, unless you are looking to have them crack or even explode do to the tube heat cooking that oil. Please use caution when handling any tubes. Wear cotton gloves or a soft clothe.

[@austinmartin755]

Can u daisy chain the channels into one signal going twice througnb the preamp (guitar > left in > left out > rt in > rd out > amp)?

[@polocash11]

I would like one with a bluetooth capability also.

[@Toid]

Believe it or not, I just reviewed one with Bluetooth on it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWmtlKCPbKh9bdk

[@SkyScythe]

I'm using this preamp with my jds ol dac and into my smsl sp200 and I've been enjoying it but I want to tube roll a little bit because I find the sound signature a little more clinical than I'd like

[@Saul_Goodman_Criminal_Lawyer]

is this a rebranded version of the Fx-audio Tube-03?

[@Saul_Goodman_Criminal_Lawyer]

and does this improve the BASS of the sound?

[@pietermol8508]

Yes it is. It does not imrpove the quality of the Bass sound, but it can increase or decrease the level of bass, which made result in better playback.

[@robertdavis5495]

Great review! Would I gain anything by connecting this to my Pioneer SX-10AE. My music source is my older MacBook Pro. My receiver does have a direct drive mode that bypasses the bass/treble functions. I thought it would be novel try a tubey kind of sound.

[@rosineer]

In your opinion how would this work infront of powered speakers (kanto YU4s) ?

[@miguelsalami]

Any idea if the OP amps are plug in type or do they have to be soldered?

[@user-Limaa]

hi dear, is there possible to preamplifier a dynamic mic ou a guitar adapting rca cable?

[@johnlupo3919]

WE KNOW IT'S HERE!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@Enemji]

So did it change the sound character ie warmth , depth, etc?

[@alessiom]

How many is the Gain? Thank you

[@badnewsbruner]

Been looking at tube preamps for my record player. I'm planning on running my record player to the preamp, then from the preamp's out to my computer's line in, then from there through the motherboard's optical out which is connected to my soundbar. Would that be an accurate use case for this? I would like to get a full tube power section as well, but I think for now, on a budget, this would really help bring that room filling warmth to my vinyls.

[@EsotericArctos]

Is this an actual tube preamp, or is it just using op-amps and using tubes as buffers like 99% of the cheaper two tube pre-amps are?

[@RanTausi]

It is looking identical to my Fosi P1 tube preamp.

[@Thoughtflux]

How can a preamp have a bass/treble boost? Does this have a solid state chip doing this? If yes then it might ruin a more expensive chain..

[@jaytorr6701]

I got it and have a hum when connected to a phono pre amp. Any ideas why that might be? It is quite when connected to the DAC. Thanks!

[@helpaholic]

What’s the proper hook up procedure with a turntable and a Yamaha amplifier ?

[@volkiruski1221]

I am a noob...so forgive me if I do not understand....but is it true, that the best for the best output I should need this pre amp, a seperate poweramp and a dac, so 3 devices?

[@user-kj8bk3kh2u]

could I use this as a headphone amp ?

[@dbauernf]

Is there anything similar that also has a remote?

[@Puppy__Nietzsche]

What about adding a remote pot to this?

[@jackb2374]

I got a tube pre amp to connect to my computer/av receiver/2 speaker set up and I am confused about how to wire it up. Is there a simple illustration out there on how to hook it up? thanks for your help!

[@Paulo-yp8ec]

Hy can you help l have this arkay fl10 old integrated upgrade amplifier how can l connect the fx o3 buffer to this unit ldud try but no sound comes out. Iapreciated if you guys could help. Thanks

[@africantwin173]

Are there any affordable brands that have 2 in 1. Preamp and amp in one. I'm only running a 18 ohm 40 watt speaker .

[@burrito4422]

If I get the blueooth version of the preamp and hook up two bookshelf monitors to it and connect it to pc, would the pc need to be on to play music through bluetooth on my phone?

[@soggyfries4347]

So I have to power amps that I found in my parents garage. I'm pretty sure they're either from the 80s or 90s. A Kenwood and a Mitsubishi amp. Both are two ch and both do not have vol control. I hooked up some passive speakers to them and output from my PC straight to the amps. At vol level 2 its kinda quiet but vol 3 and up it gets stupid loud. Is a preamp what I need to have better control of the vol?

[@mr.spongylikeaboss4987]

Yes, exactly. Power amps were designed to be used with separate pre-amps.

[@soggyfries4347]

@@mr.spongylikeaboss4987 thx man.

[@RobPowell43]

Op Amp rolling is almost as important as tube rolling. Sound quality can definitely be improved, the original NE5532's aren't very good...

[@ozgurduman8684]

what is your advise op amp for upgrade to ne5532? i'll change it with opa1622. but i dont know other alternative opa627 is better..

[@BartholomewSmutz]

I prefer the Yomama preamp.

[@roycspary8923]

12V POWER SUPPLYFOR TUBES? IS THERE AN OP AMP TUCKED AWAY SOMEWHERE THAT IS ACTUALLY DOING THE WORK? ALL THETUBE PRE AMPS i HAVE SEEN RUN ON AT LEAST 100 VOLTS

[@jonfoss2768]

So how does it sound???

[@miekwavesoundlab]

Where do I find TRS/XLR balanced version version of this?

[@ralph9987]

i was thinking to run this between a BM800 condeser mic and a icom ham radio transceiver mic input? thoughts please?

[@jeffrielly]

I'm new to this stuff, I notticed you have the nobs at the 12'o clock position, I'm guessing that's the neutral position?

[@Toid]

That is correct

[@jeffrielly]

@@Toid so is that what I should set mine to? I'm wanting to add a preamp to my desktop setup and split the output to both my speaker amp, as well as my headphone amp so I can add a bit of warmth to the unbalanced inputs, while using pure solid state on the balanced inputs. I've already swapped out the stock tubes for a pair of 5654s.

[@s197mustangfan]

I appreciate your review but how does it sound? That's why I would add one of these to my little class D amp.....which is powerful but a bit cold sounding. Would love to try adding a bit of tube harmonics.

[@pietermol8508]

This amp is actually too good, and you won't drive the tubes anywhere near the level that it generates enough harmonics. THD is rated at 0.03%, that should say enough.

[@M0D60]

(I appreciate your Graphics) Based on your research, U consider this tube preamp formidable? I read an article stating most tube amps (2 tubes or less) are hybrids?

[@ethorii]

Yes. Stereo tube amplifier needs at least 3 tubes. One voltage gain,, one power tube for left and right. Real tube stereo amp has 3 transformers too. The likely black cubes that are heavy iron and copper. If it doesn't have these things, it can't be a real stereo tube amplifier. If you want substantial power output, like 30 watts to 50 watts per.channel, its not going to be cheap. Now you're looking at heavy, probably 30+ pounds if its built at decent minimum quality standards, and probably 6 to 7 tubes. 2 "driver" voltage gain little tubes, 2 larger, hot running power tubes per channel, and possibly a tube rectifier. Minimum probably $500 even from China. Well made retail for something like that is $1000+ even Chinese.

[@M0D60]

@@ethorii Thank U. Now I'm informed.

[@pietermol8508]

@@ethorii You are wrong. This is a pre-amp, not a power amp. Voltage gain (I assume you are talking voltage for powering the tubes) is accomplished by a chopper that steps up the power voltage. Also transformers are not required, as these are typically used to match speaker impedance. There are not speakers to be connected to this amp, so no transformers are required either.

[@beatleme2]

I have a 150w X 2 sharp Power amp that needs a preamp - would this work ?

[@chais1111]

can I use that along with a 2220 Marantz receiver and a turn table and would it be worth it sound wise. thanks

[@chais1111]

@@MissKitty6452 if I 'm listening to phono and I push the button tape monitor 1 it shuts the music off, how does that work ? do I not push that button?

[@chais1111]

@@MissKitty6452 Thanks Mika, I appreciate your knowledge.

[@muppetpaster]

Mine was 25 bucks.....same thing only Tosi branded...Replaced tubes with General Electrics and RCA's....sweet.

[@muppetpaster]

Price including PS

[@Budgethifiamps]

Lightning deals from Jul 23, 2019 8:45 AM PDT to Jul 23, 2019 2:45 PM PDT

[@ahanafmahee7523]

Can I use it with guitar pedals?

[@Rob1972Gem]

can this be used a phono turntable preamp

[@Toid]

Yes

[@cirocianci3049]

Ragazzi credetemi se vi dico che x una manciata di euro ho comprato su amazon il nobsaund 6j1 preamplificatore valvolare puro ( nessun operazionale sul percorso del segnale ) assieme a uno swich x selezionarmi ben 4 ingressi audio stereo da : lettore dvd/cd economico con ingresso di pendrive usb in mp3, collegando la radio fm stereo, la uscita cuffia della tv, e il mio telefono, ben 4 ingressi con lo swich il tutto cablato in modo pulito verso il mio integrato Denon PMA 520 AE. Il pre comprato piu' x curiosita', ebbene sono rimasto basito letteralmente senza parole,questo piccolo cinese ha trasformato il mio modesto inpianto stereo in un prodotto di livello superiore...premetto che gia' prima si sentiva bene con una coppia di casse della MAGNAT mod. SUPREME 202 a due vie. Un suono favoloso dei bassi che non avevo nemmeno l'idea di avere, medi presenti e armoniosi, alti setosi, insomma un sistema che in questa NUOVA configurazione risulta maledettamente BEN SUONANTE in un prossimo futuro voglio provare un buon amplificatore tutto valvole e calore. Consiglio x chi lo volesse provare il piccolo pre a valvole del Nobsound di sostituire le originali ( 6j1 ) con una coppia gemellata di GE 5654 W JAN valvole equivalenti USA Nos le GE Jan sono state costruite a norme militari ( Jonventure Army e Navy ) prodotte in migliaia negli anni 60/70 del XX secolo suonano con piu' definizione ampliando il palcoscenico sonoro facendo percepire piu' profondita' e separando un pelo di piu' l'jmmagine stereofonica. Le 6j1 made in cina suonano benissimo hanno un bel sound caldo e abbastanza raffinato, ma comunque provare un po' di TUBE.ROLLING costa poco. Saluti e buona musica.💯💯👍👍👍🌧🌧🌧

[@ebiscaia]

It’s long ago but what about testing Schiit Saga?

[@m.a.t.z8383]

where's the soind test?

[@darrens7603]

Does it change sound signature to tubish sound?

[@Toid]

Yes

[@hificat101]

Question. Are you supposed to touch vacuum tubes with your bare skin?

[@Toid]

There are people who claim you shouldn't. The logic doesnt seem to make sense with these low powdered units. I handle my tubes with my bare hands with no issues.

[@TempoDrift1480]

You obviously don't want to touch them when they're hot but they're not like halogen bulbs where they get hot enough to boil the oil from your skin. It won't hurt them at all to touch them.

[@MobileDecay]

Sadly you will melt into a puddle of molten flesh. 😥

[@john_5525]

Sealed with polyfill vs ported???

[@zhuangdewen]

Will this work as phono state for turntables?

[@BronsonOsborne]

no it will not work as phono you need phono preamp for that

[@ThePosticeage]

Is this a real tube amp or transister+tube hybrid amp?

[@UNSCPILOT]

Only two tubes so it's likely a hybrid

[@jpayton680]

Can it be used for turntable

[@pietermol8508]

No. it doesn't have the RIAA correction required for turntables.

[@terryharp7770]

I bought the bluetooth version. It does not have a high enough output for old school amps running into auxillary input. do they make an inline amp with enough gain to be compatabale with old school input levels? Thanks for any help

[@pietermol8508]

That is odd, as the non BT version has a gain of 1 with the provided tubes with the volume set at center, and with 5654W tubes the volume only has to be at about 1/3 for a gain of 1. So with a proper source, you should be able to drive your old school amp. Was the volume of the connected BT device high enough?

[@misteragb7558]

Can I use it as a standalone amp?

[@F150_boss]

No, you’ll need a amp or powered speakers

[@Andrewatnanz]

people buy these to add "tube warmth" You will need to check for the distortion they provide.

[@travasesino]

.......... always wondered what became of jared from state farm. glad to see he's doin okay

[@daysofgrace2934]

Shame about the 85-50Hz mid to low bass decrease…

[@deejeemadrox1866]

Have bought and tested the t6 pro for a week now and i am disappointed. To use the tubes you use the t6 bluetooth and dac. There is not another way. And that is the core of my issue. The T6 dac is terrible compared to my Cambridge Audio CXR120 DAC. So i bought the wrong device, i need somthing which passes through the digital signal , but in doing so, tou also bypass the tubes....lol. So the only option for my situation is a tube amo with a very good dac build in on par with Cambridge Audio CXR120. Anyway, not recommend this t6 pro as a desktop preamp, far from it. Buyers beware!

[@johnlupo3919]

YOU HAVE USED UP YOUR "SO" QUOTA OF THE DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@tlathrop7753]

I bought it and tried it in my HiFi. It sounds shit. Don't waste your money. Soundstage is narrow, details are mushed feels like a low quality product even with GE tubes. I highly recommend not getting it if you're an audiophile or care about quality

[@VenomousB6U6R6N]

Should you touch the tubes with bare hands? They get hot, oils from your skin...

[@bwithrow011]

It's pronounced Eye-eema

[@joeysarmiento1925]

Open that up. You will notice some ICs, about 4 and you call this a tube preamp? Compare it to a basic PAS2 preamp.