“very nice mid range but rolled off on the high frequencies.” Read
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2 thoughts on “Mullard 12au7 Short Gray Plates”
When it comes to the world of vintage tubes, Mullard is a name that practically speaks for itself. While the 12AU7 often sits in the shadow of its more famous sibling, the 12AX7, it holds a distinct and commanding presence in any high-end audio chain.
The sonic profile is defined by a rich, chocolaty character. The low end is particularly impressive, delivering bass and mid-bass that feel tight, structured, and expertly textured. This warmth carries over into the midrange, making vocals the absolute standout feature of this tube. It provides a lushness that brings incredible soul to male vocals, though this same weight can occasionally make female vocals feel a bit “thick” or overshadowed by the mid-bass prominence.
One of the most surprising elements is the sense of air. Usually, tubes with this level of richness tend to feel closed-in, but the Mullard manages to maintain a lovely space around instruments. On the top end, you’ll find the high frequencies are rolled off earlier than many of its contemporaries, which contributes to its vintage charm. While its bass-heavy emphasis means it isn’t the most balanced choice for every genre, it is an absolute revelation when paired with older recordings that benefit from its specific harmonic signature.
Final Verdict: A highly recommended choice for listeners seeking a warm, “old-school” musicality, particularly those who prioritize vocal depth and textured bass over clinical transparency.
I put in a matched quad of the CV491 version of these from 1963 (about $100/tube). Boy they sound GOOD. Very liquid, yet still dynamic. They bring power and authority, yet they’re very smooth.. Tons of detail, especially in the mid-range. The layers in the mid-range are astonishing. These tubes create soundscapes that fill the room with beautiful music. They bring beauty, magic, AND aura. The soundstage is very large. The bass hits hard and it’s accurate. I have no problem with the highs. The seem sweet and pleasant to me. They could very well be rolled-off, but it’s not bothering me a bit. My favorite tube right now. Better than the CV4003, which is a bit more aggressive.
Mullard CV491 1963 Short Plates – 5 Stars
That being said, a matched quad of the CV491 1955 long plates are in the mail right now, so there’s familiar competition on it’s way….
When it comes to the world of vintage tubes, Mullard is a name that practically speaks for itself. While the 12AU7 often sits in the shadow of its more famous sibling, the 12AX7, it holds a distinct and commanding presence in any high-end audio chain.
The sonic profile is defined by a rich, chocolaty character. The low end is particularly impressive, delivering bass and mid-bass that feel tight, structured, and expertly textured. This warmth carries over into the midrange, making vocals the absolute standout feature of this tube. It provides a lushness that brings incredible soul to male vocals, though this same weight can occasionally make female vocals feel a bit “thick” or overshadowed by the mid-bass prominence.
One of the most surprising elements is the sense of air. Usually, tubes with this level of richness tend to feel closed-in, but the Mullard manages to maintain a lovely space around instruments. On the top end, you’ll find the high frequencies are rolled off earlier than many of its contemporaries, which contributes to its vintage charm. While its bass-heavy emphasis means it isn’t the most balanced choice for every genre, it is an absolute revelation when paired with older recordings that benefit from its specific harmonic signature.
Final Verdict: A highly recommended choice for listeners seeking a warm, “old-school” musicality, particularly those who prioritize vocal depth and textured bass over clinical transparency.
I put in a matched quad of the CV491 version of these from 1963 (about $100/tube). Boy they sound GOOD. Very liquid, yet still dynamic. They bring power and authority, yet they’re very smooth.. Tons of detail, especially in the mid-range. The layers in the mid-range are astonishing. These tubes create soundscapes that fill the room with beautiful music. They bring beauty, magic, AND aura. The soundstage is very large. The bass hits hard and it’s accurate. I have no problem with the highs. The seem sweet and pleasant to me. They could very well be rolled-off, but it’s not bothering me a bit. My favorite tube right now. Better than the CV4003, which is a bit more aggressive.
Mullard CV491 1963 Short Plates – 5 Stars
That being said, a matched quad of the CV491 1955 long plates are in the mail right now, so there’s familiar competition on it’s way….