Tube guys, Engl 6550/KT88 Question?

[blindmuddy]

I need to retube my Savage 120 and was wondering what the pros/cons of each of these tubes are. I ordered some 6550s and the guy sent me KT88s. This is my first amp that uses these kinda tubes and his site made it sound like 6550s were the way to go but now that he sent the wrong ones he's trying to make it sound as though it doesn't matter. I am mostly into looking for good high gain but still want the amp to be versatile.
Thanks
Chris

[parntz145]

Re: Tube guys, Engl 6550/KT88 Question?

I had both and for my modded Marshall I like the 6550 better. The kt88 have more bottom end to them. They are a direct replacement but tone wise are different. If you switch between the 2 you will need to rebias the head.

[vander]

Re: Tube guys, Engl 6550/KT88 Question?

I just purchased a Savage 120 from Derek at Rocksolidamps.com and he is totally sold on the GE 6550.
He highly recommened that I even get them now and replace the new Engl brand 6550s. He says the difference is profound and the GE's will last far longer as the Savage is tough on tubes.
KCANOS tubes has them for just under two hundre a matched pair...Derek says the expense is worth it.
I just purchased some NOS RFT 12a7x's to experiment with in the gain channels and the GE's are my next purchase.

[vander]

Re: Tube guys, Engl 6550/KT88 Question?

BTW...I meant Engl branded not Engl brand.