Quote:Hi Steve,
Thanks for this update. I have had the Torii Jr for about a month now, it's first owner put about 5-600 hours on it. I have a few questions/advice needed, but I will address the gain issue here.
I have a very good tube DAC - it outputs +2V via the single ended connections. Running directly into the Torii Jr, it seems that it sometimes is challenging to get the volume I want - I listen 99% low volume. Running the ERR speakers, which I guess are around 91-93db. I've had the ERRs for several years, and tried them with the SE84CKC and loved the sound quality, but always felt it was lacking punch, and not quite getting the drivers moving. So here I am with the Jr (which you suggested in a phone call at one point). It definitely has a great sound - can be very sweet, or punchy when called for. I like it.
So, my issue is that as soon as I turn up the volume even a bit, it is already where I want it, maybe a hair too loud. When I try to lower it, because I am so close to the leftmost end of the dial, sometimes the sound just cuts off. Anotherwords, I've maxed out the quiet level!
So, question for you - do you think this tube type in the input slot will help me? Right now I am running Siemens grey place E88CC matched pair. Thanks for any info you may have.
Best,
Matt
Hi Matt,
The 6N5P has a bit less gain which should help your situation a bit. That said I don't understand how with a 2 volt source and ERR speakers you wouldn't be able to reach at least the half way point on the dial for a normal listening session.
Steve
A note about 6N11: First several batches I got of these tubes all tested nearly perfect. Really impressive. Last few batches of these have been all over the map with about 30% going into the trash. By that I mean they spec out wildly different and do not sound like the original batch. I do still have some in stock, however I am no longer able to recommend these Chinese tubes due to quality control issues. As a replacement I am using the 6N5P from Russia, it still has better resolution than a 6N1P, and a nice silky sound with a touch less gain.