I experimented with resistors a while back, by accident. I was fixing
an old tube radio, and replaced the feedback resistor with a metal
film. I could hear a difference, and it wasn't good. I went into a
long testing session, and found the carbon comps sounded the best,
followed by ratshack carbon films (the only films I had). All other
metal, and oxide resistors either tended to have a edgy (metallic?)
sound or imparted a strange flatness (mostly the metal oxides) to the
sound. Only the carbons imparted a smooth, deep sound to the radio.
Needless to say, I've since stocked quite a large amount of carbon
comp resistors.

I don't know how wirewound resistors would stack up, but I imagine
they should be neutral, if anything.


Bob Hedberg.

"Marko" wrote:

I was told that metal film resistors should not be used with tubes because
they make the circuit ring. Carbon films sound better.

I see no basis for this in specifications for metal films. Any opinions or
facts? Thanks, Mark


Bob H.

Just grab that plate in one hand, the chassis in the other,
and FEEL the power of tube audio!!!
(not literally, of course, just kidding. DON'T DO THAT!)