OK, initial feedback:
System:Modwright Transporter (EML 5U4G rectifier tube)
Modwright 36.5
Modwright KWA150
Salk HT3's (sorry, no veneer, just a black pearl finish)
As an opening caveat I find that tube rolling typically leads to change in sonic signature, the change might be positive in the short term but extended listening reveals if the change is beneficial and I can live with the change. So I'll just give a first impression and follow up later with an extended update.
PackagingThe photographs don't really do the product justice, the box has a matte black finish and didn't show well with a flash. It's a good start to get a professionally packaged product, as opposed to what I'm used to - old tubes wrapped in newspaper in a recycled box from an EBay seller
First ImpressionsI've had my system in limbo for a few weeks as I'm waiting for a second KWA150 and have also moved the equipment location, while this has been going on I've lost interest in listening to music. Even with Tung Sol RP 6SN7's in place the fun had gone. Last night I put the Treasures in and immediately they are very special - very three dimensional soundstage and extremely musically involving . Rolling the rectifier tube in the MWTP I find the TS 5U4G to be very clinical whereas the EML 5U4G is more organic and. This phenomenon is repeated when rolling out the TSRP for the Treasures - but even more so than the rectifier tube. I finished up with a 4 hour listening session, at crazy volume levels, these tubes are really smooth
I thought the top end may be a touch rolled off, but it may have been a more smoother top end? More prolonged listening leads me towards the view that it's smoother.
Dan didn't share his listening notes with me, on the 'leading the witness' principle. I shared notes with him last night and we're calibrated on our first impressions, he added that they are also very detailed - if he agrees with me then he must have good ears
I have tried adding a second EML rectifier tube in my system, in the 36.5, but the combination of two EML's is not good - to bloated. The Treasures give me what I was looking for - the EML/Treasure combination gives me the best sound I've heard out of the TP.
I'll get back with an update, in the meantime this post is subject to client attorney privilege and cannot be used as evidence in a court of law (by Vera) when she divorces Ken for spending more money on audio toys. Shane Sangster is the principle witness