Why no tube loaner/testdrives--It's hard being an audiophile


I just wanted to vent for a moment. I'm going to quote my wife and file this under "It's hard being an audiophile" as there is some absurdity to the fact that I view this issue as a real life problem.

The issue: 

My Primaluna integrated amp has 6 premp tubes and 8 power tubes.  While the unit makes tube rolling a snap, it's (a) difficult to find or at reasonable prices NOS tubes in larger batches; (b) reissue or new tubes cost a bunch to experiment with. 

For example, if I want to swap in a set of Gold Lion KT77 power tubes (I've already tried the stock EL34s and Mullard re-issues), it's a small fortune to do so.  I think the GL KT77 may be the ticket, yet making another expenditure to find out seems pricey.  I wish I could borrow a set and pay a tryout fee, as opposed to spending $400 on a set. 
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Showing 1 response by soundermn

Sounds like you have the PL premium HP, which is the same one I have. The two middle input tubes are the important ones. I put Cifte tubes in mine and it was a big improvement. Better highs, smoother overall sound, and tighter bass. I would suggest starting there and the cost isn't so tough to swallow. 

 I'm using KT120 power tubes and they have much better bass than the stock EL34 set that came with it. Plus, they are more linear overall. I would like to try a set of KT150 power tubes.  A set is $700, which is a lot, but I think the improvement would be substantial. 

What have you thought of the sound with the reissues and KT77 swaps compared to the EL34s?