I'm working out a line-stage build, and the design can take 6sn7 or 6sl7's, depending on how I configure it. More gain seems like a good thing, if I can achieve it without a cost. Hence my post: Is there a downside to using the 6sl7 instead of the 6sn7? Googling around seems to indicate that they are both fine tubes, but there aren't much in the way of direct comparisons since they can't be rolled in the same amp.
How much gain do you need dude? My line amp will put out 10V using 6N3... With 6SL7, it'd be closer to 35V from 1V input. Unless you're wrapping a bunch of feedback around it or something I don't see any reason for so much gain.
I’ve had issues with total gain from my phono cartridge, and I’m about to switch to a phono stage that has less gain, and I’d rather not have to use a step-up transformer.
I agree it may not be necessary, which is why I want to know if it would actually cause a problem. If using higher gain tubes doesn’t cause any problem, why not?
I agree it may not be necessary, which is why I want to know if it would actually cause a problem. If using higher gain tubes doesn’t cause any problem, why not?
The only downside is you might drive the grid positive with loud signals if you use the typical grounded cathode amp. If you make it a slight follower, you'll get more input to play with. Just take the cathode resistor, and add a second one like in this example. R1 = R3 = 1k, R2=100k, R4 = 1k, R5 = R6 = 1M, C1 = C2 - 0.1uF, V1 6SL7 or 6N9S or 12AX7 or 6N2P etc, B+ ~300V
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Cool, that’s good to know. I’m doing the Aikido Octal amp which is a cathode follower. They provide component values for using the *sl7, as well as a handful of other tubes