“The Tungsram are brighter on the high frequencies anda little coolerregarding the midrangeproducing accurate sonics without beingthe least bit sterile sounding in my applications.” Read
“Tungsram sounds much more precise, open, and clear, with more resolution top-to-bottom.” Read
The Tungsram E80CC is a fascinating study in contrast, offering a sonic profile that shifts the traditional ECC82/12AU7 warmth toward something far more precise and analytical. After being thoroughly impressed by Tungsram’s ECC82 and ECC83, I expected their “in-house” house sound to translate here, and I wasn’t disappointed—though it certainly takes a different path.
The first thing you notice is the liquid transparency and punchy dynamics. It has a rhythmic energy that makes it nearly impossible to stop tapping your foot. In terms of technical performance, this tube is a powerhouse; it possesses an incredible density of sound and a level of precision that makes it feel “perfect” from a measurement standpoint.
However, this perfection comes with a trade-off. While the classic ECC82 family is often criticized for higher distortion, it’s that very “flaw” that provides the softness and richness many audiophiles crave for long-term listening. The Tungsram E80CC is decidedly clinical, even more so than the legendary Telefunken 12AU7. It provides an absolute wealth of information, but the sheer volume of detail can become overbearing. If you are looking for a lush, romantic escape, this might not be the right fit. But if your goal is audio perfection and crystalline clarity, this tube gets you as close as any small signal tube on the market.
Final Verdict: An elite choice for the detail-oriented listener who prioritizes accuracy and dynamic punch over vintage warmth. It is a “high-definition” experience that leans toward a solid-state level of clean, though it may prove fatiguing for those who prefer a softer, more musical roll-off.
A lot of people think this is “the” tube – i see it on a lot of favorites lists. I didn’t quite get it in my system. The matched quad brought incredible highs that soar to the ceiling, but the mid-range and bass seemed a bit thin. It also lacked a bit of detail in the mid-range. Soundstage exists, but not 3D or holographic. There’s also a bit of a fatiguing factor (not overbearing, but it comes eventually).
I agree with Nick, it’s punchy and has a bit of a “solid state” sound to it. Don’t get me wrong, they’re high quality tubes (and I should probably give them more time), but there’s just so many tubes out there!
Tungsram E80CC – 3.5 to 4 stars
The E80CC is my favorite small signal tube. In my system, which includes a Cayin TA-30 integrated and Legacy Classic speakers, the Tungsram’s sound more balanced and actually less fatiguing than the Philips gold pin E80CC’s I have. The Philips are known to have more midrange depth and presense. I can hear that compared to the Tungsram’s. But, I wouldn’t say that the Tungsrams are flat or clinical sounding, either. I suspect that it has something to do with my system already being fairly midrange-forward sounding to begin with. My CD player and phono stage are both tubed in addition to the the all tube Cayin integrated. The Philips E80CC’s might be tipping the scales since there is an upper midrange emphasis with those tubes installed that can become grating over time. I also really like the Tungsram 6922/E88CC tubes. Same sparkling, detailed and well balanced sound. I use them in both my Njoe Tjoeb CD4000 and Bottlehead Seduction phono stage.
TungsramのE80CCはスタックスのコンデンサイヤスピーカー専用の6CG7ppアンプの初段管に使っています。
当初は12AU7で、スタックスがキレイで透明ではあるものの平凡な音でしたが、E80CCに替えて見違える音になりました。
音の粒子が細かくなり透明度が上がり輝く音です。
派手さはなく非常に落ち着いた音です。
このE80CCは素晴らしい真空管です