Hi ! I'm testing for the first time my EAR 834 clone, following as close as possible the Skunkie's layout. I'm testing with cheap tubes : x2 12AX7 JJ and x1 Ruby 12AX7. Very satisfy with bass reponse, high, with all, wicked !!! but it's clipping RED on my vu-meter (I diy vu-meter on my ADC Sound Shaper EQ).

Could we talk about gain stage there ? Please, give me your science, advises, references etc. Just, I dont want volume pot ;)

I know tubes have differents gains. But resistors control the gain. Which value should I change for resistors ?

Thanks Everyone !