KT88 or EL34

[over51]

Have CAYIN CS-100A with KT88 valves.
I like my sound warm - not bright
The amp, though superb in almost every way, sounds just a little like a solid state amp sometimes.
Would EL34 valves be a good substitute for me - or are there other suitable alternatives?

 

[Thebiker]

I run a Cary SLI 80 which is equipped with KT88's. I normally run in the triode mode mode rather than ultra linear. Warm and rich. When it became time to change them out, I moved to Gold Lion KT88's. Wonderful tubes, warm and full in either mode. A bit expensive, yup. Worth it, it was to me. Bass is solid and the high end is beautiful with a delicate decay. Short answer, a tube change will alter your sound. Research any tube before laying down your cash. Also, changing to EL34's will cost you some power, will your speakers accommodate this? Tube rolling is a great way to tailor your sound. Hope this helps.