Suggestions for tube? (noob)

Equipment / Electronics / Gear / Accessories Headphone Amps
1

Hey,

I have an FX-audio tube preamp:

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I don’t know anything about tubes, but these say 6K4, which I understand to be the format?
And 82,7 M’ (no idea what that is referring to)

Now, I don’t see any visual damage but it seems one of the tubes has crapped out on me.
When I add it, the LEDs on the power switch and even the power supply drop significantly in brightness and I don’t get any sound or almost none, even at everything maxxed out.

So now, I could replace that tube, which I suppose means getting a pair.
And that would definitely be the sensible option.
I would need suggestions on which ones to get though. I have no clue about tubes.

On the other hand…it is christmas, and do have to say I enjoyed the way the tubes changes the sound signature of both my speakers and my headphones (balance modded DT880 600 ohms).
This is paired with an IFI dac/amp zen stack.

So I could see a world where I get a proper tube amp.
In that case I guess I would probably be looking at a Tor audio balanced amp.
Or the newer balanced xduoo, or maybe there is something new, I haven’t been keeping tabs on audio news.

I dunno, I would be open to suggestions if anybody feels like it, but primarily I am looking to get some tube suggestions for the fx-audio preamp.

2

Where in the world are you?

Here is a straightforward replacement, but you might be able to do better surfing around, or by talking to a reputable dealer near you.

3

Central europe.

4

I suppose this would work?

Or this one…this one seems to be the same brand as the ones I got?

Can’t say I’m hyped about ordering from france though, I’ve only had bad experiences.

5

Russian tubes used in submarines were built to last, and importantly, were quiet. If you can contact and interact with this “Tube Amp Doctor” via phone or email, I’d do it. Those tube guys are very knowledgeable.

6

Huh? Why would I call them as opposed to just putting it in the basket like any other store?

7

Just for further possible recommendations. Tube guys’ advice might save money in the long run. Whatever you decide, though, is fine.

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8

Sent tube doctor a mail. They weren’t certain but suggested any of these might work:

Any recommendations amongst those?

9

Yeah, I think those are compatible. Your stock tubes were probably made in the mid 1980’s or sooner, probably in China. Those RCA’s were made in the early 1960’s, but never used. I don’t have any RCA’s myself, but they are well-respected. I’m a little uncertain how well they will work right next to a computer; they may be more sensitive to RF from PCs or phones.

10

I guess I will find out. I ordered a pair of RCAs, fingers crossed!.

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