How much do power amp tubes affect tone?

[drjones]

Guys,
Im looking for a pair of EL34s for my TSL60 (preamp tubes later). Now Im a tad confused as what to get. The most popular (at least on marshall forum) are JJ/Teslas, Mullards, Sveltanas, and Electro Harmonix.

Who here has experience with these tubes? I cant imagine they would make as much difference to my sound as preamp tubes, but still a little research before i decide can't hurt. Like I said in my other post, im pretty happy with the sound of the amp, but if i could make it sound "better" im all for it.

So how much do power amp tubes really affect tone? is it as noticable as, say for example swapping from a strat to a Les paul. Im just after an idea of how much this would change the amps sound so i know how much time and effort into researching tubes!!!

thanks guys

 

[kevlar3000]

Re: How much do power amp tubes affect tone?

Dramatic difference, some are darker, some crunch more, they completely alter the feel of the amp, as much as pre tubes IMO. I highly recomend sending Tube Tramp, AKA Terry Kilgore terry_kilgore2003@yahoo.com a note. Has the best vintage glass on the net, he deals in far more brands then the typical over the counter offerings these days. The right tube, paired with that amp can make astounding differences. I have been messing with a Risson amp I just got and have been tossing different EL34 tubes in it, each one has its own unique voice, some to benefit and some that don't.

 

[stevie_bees]

Re: How much do power amp tubes affect tone?

I've got JJ EL34L's in my TSL 601, and it really "opened" the amp up. A lot more articulate than the stock valves. I've still got to play with the preamp valves, and a speaker change, but I'm getting there.