Hello Willsenton R8 owners:

Am a relatively new convert to tube amps. Got my first one, the Willsenton R8, about two years ago and it came with the stock KT88s. Am wondering if any of you have switched to EL34s. What are the most significant changes to the amp’s sound signature assuming you are using the same source and speakers? Is it worth switching to EL34s given my preference for jazz and acoustic/folk?

Am more than happy with the R8’s sound, especially with its mid and lower end sound. However, the highs can be a bit harsh even though I have paired it with Focal Chora 806 bookshelves, which are warmer sounding than its comparable competitors.

  • Habitualflagellant14@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    R8 owner for 2+ years. I prefer the amp with EL34 tubes. When one of the stock KT88s started to make crackling noises is when I decided to make the change. The highs are sweeter with the SED Winged C EL 34 tubes compared to the stock tubes. You will find more options for NOS and new tubes with EL34s. The caveat here is I don’t have any experience with any high quality KT88s to make a comparison but I do see that they are expensive. As far as the loss of power output with EL34s, I haven’t noticed anything. There is also some discussion that the R8 is more in its comfort zone with EL34s because the tubes are less demanding on the internal circuitry. It should be noted that if you are looking to make the greatest sonic improvement in your R8 the tubes to roll are the two 6SL7s. There are many NOS options out there. Check out Brent Jesse for awesome information on tubes for the R8. I buy from vacuumtubes.net in Florida. Their prices are competitive and they won’t charge you tax. YMMV Have fun, tube rolling is a blast (but can be detrimental to your bank account). Stereonet has a great forum for R8 owners too.

    • KariKunToo@alien.topOPBEnglish
      1·
      10 months ago

      Wow! Thanks for such detailed and valuable input given my nil experience with tube rolling. I think my first strategy is to replace the two 6SL7s and see what improvements I’ll get. Then down the road I can switch to EL34s. Looking at Tungsols, which are getting great reviews.