I've been experimenting for years
working to find the right mix of good sounding and reliable EL34 tubes to
stock here at the shop. After installing thousands of tubes, here
are my two top picks and why.
Top choice - EL34 from "Winged C"
aka S.E.D. For quite a few years now, this tube has stood above the
rest as an example of what an EL34 should be. It has a great balance
of tone with nothing standing out as being overbearing. The highs
and mids are strong as is typical of the EL34 type. While the bass is not
as strong an many 6L6GC tubes it is excellent for an EL34.
Reliability and lifespan is the best of all brands in my experience.
The only negative comment I have is about the price. This tube has
become substantially more expensive than any other brand. By the
way, this tube should not be confused with the "Svetlana" labeled ones
from the Sovtek people. It is a different tube with misleading
labeling.
Second Choice – EL34B from Tung-Sol
This one is a good quality tube for a better price than the Winged C.
Tonally, it is similar but it may be just a bit cleaner at lower volume
with great note definition and the bass response is very slightly less
than the Winged C. The price is about 40% less than the Winged C.
This is a fairly new tube but so far, the reliability is been very good.
Other EL34s
Electro-Harmonix EL34.
Physically, this tube appears almost identical to the Tung-Sol variety and
it's built at the same factory but it lacks the welded plate structure and
the shock absorbing "springs" of the Tung Sol. The tone is similar to the
Tung-Sols but slightly brighter and harsher in the treble.
Reliability has been below average in my experience.
EL34B from Shuguang-China - This
tube is marketed under various brand names such as Ruby, Tube Amp Doctor,
Mesa Boogie, Marshall, Valve Art and others. The tone is pretty
good, (similar to the Tung-Sol but with slightly less bass and clarity)
and the price can be very good depending on the branding.
Unfortunately, the life span seems to be shorter than average.
EL34 and E34L from JJ While these
tube do sound good with a warm smooth tone, there are serious quality
issues. I find it difficult to get a new matched quad without at
least one tube making crackling and popping noises right out of the box.
Life spans also tend to be shorter than average. By the way, the
EL34 and E34L are the same tube. The only difference is the bias
voltage requirement. All other specs are identical.
