April 26, 2012

• Valve Art KT88

  These are three-hole, grey plate KT88s with a top getter and single side getter, positioned (unusually) at the bottom of the plate structure.  The Vale Art tubes are labeled as manufactured by O & J Enterprises Co., Ltd., China and are said to be copies of the GEC (Genalex) KT88.  They are carried by Tubeman at a price of $74.95 per pair.  Cryogenically treated VA KT88s are also available for $99.90 from the same online dealer.

  The VA KT88 has a chrome-colored collar and brown base.  The review set is well broken in and was purchased eight or nine years ago, most likely from the dealer cited.

  Label side view                                                                                 Rear view with side getter flashing
        

   

  Listening impressions:

  • Borderline excellent detail, transient snap, and dynamics
  • Bass lays a solid foundation and electric guitar sometimes has a growl to it which is not common in my system
  • Treble is extended but not exaggerated -- cymbals have a metallic shimmer that slowly fades into the noise floor
  • Accurate midrange that allows for clear, easy to follow dialogue and realistic vocals (mouth noises, etc.)
  • Instruments occupy their own space and the acoustic is easily heard

   

  The Valve Art KT88s are my favorite of the Chinese manufactured tubes reviewed so far.  This is due to the fact that they seem, at least to me, to combine the clarity and resolution of the 6550 output tube with the superior, transparent sound staging ability of the best KT88s.  This similarity to the 6550 may be what, in the final analysis, pushes the VA KT88 to the fore of the Chinese manufactured KT88 type output tubes.   

  During the review process, I found myself forgetting to listen critically and became absorbed in whatever was playing on my stereo.  It’s hard for me to pay them a higher compliment than that.

  • 1:13 pm
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