Driver Tubes: Help Me Decide

[Armand]

Hi. I wanted to grab a pair of 6SL7 river tubes for my Cary SLA70A Signature amp. I'm currently using a used/tests strong pair of Sylvania VT 229's from the 40's. These tubes are outstanding but slightly forward although I'm willing to buy another pair they are that good. So my narrowed down choices are as folows:

Tesla ECC35 from the 70's- $120 a matched pair.
Tung Sol 6SU7GTY- $95 a matched pair.
Sylvania VT 229- $65 a matched pair.

If you have any experience with these tubes as a driver in a power amp, please let me know your thought. Thanks.

[Armand]

no one?

[wkhanna]

There just are not a lot tube heads here, Armand.

I only have experience with low power pre amp tubes, so I can’t offer any assistance.

You might try the guys at Audio Asylum.

[dtb300]

Check out these people:

Jim McShane (search google for him) - Great seller and very knowledgeable
Tube World - Brendan is also good to deal with

Others that people seem to like dealing with:

Tube Depot
Tube Store

[Bob]

Personally, I like the sound of the Sophia 6sL7 tubes and the RCA 5691 Red Bases.

[wkhanna]

Bob,
What are the particular characteristics about theses tubes that impress you?
HF or LF extension, detail or warmth, etc.