October 19, 2012

• Matsushita National Labelled 6922

  The sample set of 6922 dual triodes under review is branded National and was made by Matsushita, Japan with tooling obtained from Mullard.  Their exact vintage is unknown but most probably date from the late 70’s to early 80’s.  They were purchased from TubeMonger for $40 apiece.  An average, brand new E88CC/6922 scores between 10500 and 11500 mmhos on the tester used by the vendor and this sample set measured an average of 12150 mmhos, or, about 10% higher than typically the case.

  One 6922 was used as the input tube in my c-j Premier 140 amplifier and the remaining six were placed in the Premier 16LS2 preamplifier.  They replaced a set of GE grey glass 6DJ8’s (review one of these days) that had occupied the same seven positions.

  The Matsushita 6922's physically resemble their Mullard forbears right down to their seamed tops.  Th review set was auditioned for 46 hours and did not change character through break-in.  They were used almost exclusively with Valve Art KT88 output tubes in the Premier 140; a match that I thought was particularly good.

  Matsushita 6922 front view                                                                   Matsushita 6922 rear view
       
  

  Matsushita 6922 top view showing seams                                                Matsushita 6922 getter ring
       
  

   

   Listening Impressions:

  • Frequency balance is leaner than the GE 6DJ8 but manages to maintain an organic sound indicative of the Mullard/Amperex pedigree.
  • The cello work in the first-rate String Quartets SACD on the 2L label, an area where the GE grey glass excelled, is not quite as prominent.
  • Conversely, the deepest bass on the Prometheus blu-ray disc was cleaner and managed to be forceful without any boominess.
  • The sound stage is sometimes box-like, rather than a triangle with its apex at the listening seat.
  • Fine detail within the acoustic was readily apparent and upper treble response is superior to the GE grey glass 6DJ8. 
  • The increased high frequency energy gives the impression of more detail with sharper leading edges and a cleaner sounding bass line.
  • The Chet SHM-CD released in mono was dynamic with excellent tonality and detail.

    

  I found the Matsushita 6922 dual triodes to be very much in the Amperex camp, in general, and in particular, reminded me most of the Mullard PCC88, with a little less treble emphasis.  Given their lineage, this is not much of a surprise.  If you would like to investigate what all the fuss is about regarding NOS tubes, these may be a relatively affordable way to accomplish your goal.

  • 11:13 am
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