Tube Rolling -Input vs. Output tubes


I was hoping to hear what other people's experiences are here. I've got a Cary V12r. Until today I had all the stock tubes in it, which is the 12 Ruby EL34, 2 new issue Electro-Harmonix EL84, and two GE 12BZ7 tubes. I've been contemplating rolling the power tubes, but was being cheap. (cheap vs. hi-fi - the never ending conflict) Today I was at my secret purveyor of old tubes and I got two NOS EL84s, labeled "Hammond" presumably for an organ, labeled "Made in England" and two NOS RCA 12BZ7. Installing the EL84s first made a discernible difference in the sound - quieter background, more definition to the instrument image, and more defined, tuneful bass. Anyone else have thoughts on the impact of input vs. output tubes on an amp's sound?
grimace

Showing 1 response by phaelon

IMO, input tubes are more critical. The signal is very small while they have it.