Most of the Chinese 12AX7s have higher gain. The ones from the early 90s, I believe the Ts (12AX7T) if I remember right have a bit more gain than the current ones as well. The Sovtek 12AX7WA or 12AX7WBs may also be higher gain but they are really harsh and very noisy, even in comparison to the Chinese tubes.rgr said:EH 12AX7s are the highest gain preamp tubes I've found, might be worth a try. They are almost too much in my Trace Elliot head.