Sai
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I now have about 40 hrs on the Decware EL34 tubes and I think they have settled in quite nicely.
Lows are tight, mids are flat and clear, tops are clearer, less rolled off than before but definitely not bright.
In the detail department, things are sounding clearer and less “wooly.”
As a first attempt of comparing these to NOS Mullard Xf2 EL34s (single getter):
Lows: Decware EL34 has a slightly heavier bottom, while bass is tight, the Mullards are tighter, but lighter/less bass. So I guess you could say at this point the Decware tubes have more “bass” but the Mullards have a tighter bass.
Mids: Decware EL34s have been steadily improving in this area with use, the mids are very nice, not pronounced, fairly flat I would say. The Mullards kick ass in the mids however, while a little more pronounced, the detail and textures are a lot clearer than the Decware. Now that’s not to say the Decware tubes are not good, the NOS Mullards are just magical in this regard.
Highs: Decware EL34s have nice rolled off highs. They are more tubey, the Mullards are more analytical in this sense. Kind of tracks that the NOS Mullards have another level of detail and airiness in this regard.
Detail: Things got a lot better with the Decware tubes with burn in. That said, the Xf2 Mullards are just at another level. Textures of sound and sound stage, dynamics and all that stuff was at another level. I’m sure the Decware gaps will close the gap more and more with use, but at 40 hrs, this is where we are.
All said, it’s hard to fault the Decware EL34s against the Mullards as they are very easy to listen to and enjoyable. If I could get my head out of my butt and just listen to music, I’d be very happy with the Decware tubes. I feel like while the Xf2 Mullards do take the win home, but there’s plenty that the Decware tubes ought to be proud of! I have no problems recommending these to anyone looking for a solid EL34. You can definitely check a lot of boxes, enjoy your listening in the process! I plan to use mine for a long time…
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