JJ Power Tube Comparison (EL34, E34L, 6CA7, 6L6)(HQ Audio)

This is a comparison video of 4 different types of JJ power tubes. All 4 of these tubes sound great in their own respect. I did not use any pre or post production except a few low cuts and a volume boost. My Hughes & Kettner Triamp is set to 100watts and the master volume is set to just above 75% to ensure plenty of power tube saturation.

I recorded this video with an Audix i5, an sm57 and a very low signal from a Palmer PDI-03 Speaker Simulator into a Behringer X-32.

Channel 1B:
EL34: 2:14
E34L: 2:48
6CA7: 3:22
6L6GC: 3:56

Channel 3A:
EL34: 4:30
E34L: 5:04
6CA7: 5:37
6L6GC: 6:10

Tubes purchase from eurotubes.com & tubedepot.com. Always us a reputable distributor when buying tubes to ensure you get the best quality. Not all tubes are equal.

My Verdict & Preferences: (In order from least favorite to favorite)

EL34: These tubes are the first tubes I bought for my amp. They were slightly different from the stock tubes only they changed the tightness of the low end and took away some of the brittleness of the stock Sovtek tubes. I think these tubes aren't as clean as the other tubes. They are very saturated but, not as clear. Still a great tube. (Ranks 4th)

6CA7: These tubes are a really good unfortunately uncommon tube. If you like a 6L6 sound but a 6L6 is too mid scooped and thick for your liking try this tube. I will say this tube is pretty different from anything I've used before. I don't think they are as bright and clear as either an EL34 or a 6L6. Really great midrange balance and warm. (Ranks 3rd)

E34L: This tube has gotten some flack on Youtube wherever I've seen it demoed. This is such a great tube. It is very aggressive, tight and has a thick midrange but retains a lot of clarity. I've found I can drive my presence more with this tube because it can sound a little flatter, thus actually increasing the tone quality of my amp (at least in my opinion). (Ranks 2nd)

6L6GC: Now some tubes in other amps will sound completely different. I did not like the 6L6s in my old Dual Rec. but I love them in this amp. Mainly because the tone quality is far superior and the breakup isn't crunchy, but smooth. Thus, the extended highs of a 6L6 don't ruin the smoothness. I'm sure you metal guys might know what I'm talking about. There is a slight volume decrease in this tube, but when tuned and turned up this tube is warm, thick, clear and aggressive. (Ranks 1st)