Quick Video Demo: Mesa Boogie Mark V 6L6's vs EL34's

[MesaManBoogie]

Just decided to try it to see how it sounded to you guys.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T18MauaLSzM&feature=feedu

 

[jb's 52]

There are subtle differences, to my ear, but it isn't as glaringly obvious as it is when standing in front of it.

 

[rabies]

can't tell much difference (to my ears anyways). most likely root cause is that the output/master is not cranked loud enough (that's when the power tube saturation comes out). although I guess mesa amps are getting most of their sound from the preamp circuit and preamp tubes (maybe 60/40?)

you will "feel" the difference literally with a 412 and 6L6 (more bass for example)

i can't wait to get my M5....

 

[kramerxxx]

IMHO, the Cleans and the High gain sounds are best with 6L6s and channel 2 sounds best with EL34s.

 

[rabies]

IMHO, the Cleans and the High gain sounds are best with 6L6s and channel 2 sounds best with EL34s.

I'll find out about the EL34 part of your stmt tonite. I'm pretty excited actually.

 

[XxDAVIDxX]

Whoa, huge difference to my ears. I personally like the EL34's much better on the hi-gain channel and like cleans with both the 6L6's and EL34's. Obviously the 6L6's sound more compressed but I think I'm gonna try this myself. So all you have to do is get a matched quad of EL34's, flip the switch and your done?

 

[rabies]

Whoa, huge difference to my ears. I personally like the EL34's much better on the hi-gain channel and like cleans with both the 6L6's and EL34's. Obviously the 6L6's sound more compressed but I think I'm gonna try this myself. So all you have to do is get a matched quad of EL34's, flip the switch and your done?

Mesa will recommend (demand) Mesa power tubes of course. But I currently run JJ E34L in my stiletto, no issues so far if they're rated right (call eurotubes).