The LM833.

G'day all, many years ago when I started DIY audio electronics in earnest, I used LM833 dual op amps because they were commonly available from my local electronics hobbyist shop. 

Since that time I've graduated to so called 'better' op amps but I still have a soft spot for the LM833.  In some ways it is a quirky dual op amp as some knowledgeable people whose opinion I trust have nothing good to say about that dual op amp, with comments like they are prone to instability and oscillation in the RF range. 

I have heard more than one person say this, but I've never encountered this myself.  Indeed to muddy the water further I have read of instances where some manufacturers versions of the LM833 are better than others, with the ON SEMI LM833 apparently being free of any issues. 

My own LM833's are made by ON SEMI and they're excellent.  Indeed just this afternoon I replaced an OPA2134 in the second 'gain' stage of one of my DIY ESP P06's with an ON SEMI LM833 and not only is it much quieter than the OPA2134, the stereo imaging seems more 'defined' as well.  Why?  I haven't a clue!  I think that it is just a good dual op amp for audio work, at least of the ON SEMI variety.  Any comments or experience with the LM833?  Regards, Felix.