Another B1 transistor selection question.

[ammel68]

I'm sure this has been covered in a lot of previous threads. I have read a few of them but noticed most were like 2-3 years old.

Anyway, other than the 2SK170, I'm wondering what other transistors people here recommend for the B1?

From the previous posts I've read, I kept seeing these 3 transistors mentioned:

2SK369BL & V versions...I noticed these are plentiful on Ebay.
2SK370...all I see is few of the GR version listed on Ebay.
2SK372...I've only found the V version on the AmpsLab website.

So which of these "sound" the best in the B1 or will they all sound very similar?

Also, can any of the above transistors be used without changing the biasing resistors or do they need to be changed for each transistor?
I'm currently using the recommended 18 volt DC supply on my B1.

Thank you...

 

[Marra]

Have you tied Spencer for 2SK170's? The guy sells the genuine article and supplies well matched devices and a fast service.

FET Audio | Hi-End Audio Projects

 

[AndrewT]

lsk170 is a direct substitute.

 

[ammel68]

Have you tied Spencer for 2SK170's? The guy sells the genuine article and supplies well matched devices and a fast service.

FET Audio | Hi-End Audio Projects

No, I haven't tried him for the 2SK170's.

For some reason I was under the impression that the other transistors I listed above were actually better in one or more areas than the 170's.

So the 2SK170 or LSK170 are still the best devices to use in the B1?

A quick search for the LSK170 didn't turn up much. Who sells them?

 

[Nelson Pass]

I use the B devices, although the other grades work fine.

I don't "match" the devices, I just tend to use them in groups of Idss of
9 or 10 mA, and I pick the lower Idss for the negative side devices.

Not a big deal in any case.

 

[ammel68]

Thank you for the reply Mr. Pass!