6h30 tubes dampers to replace Audio Research ones

I have had both an LS26 and now a REF5se, and on the LS26 I tried Herbies and one other that escapes me now and wound up using the ARC original dampers. What I do though, is replace them every 8000 hours or 2nd tube change. I figure any rubber product loses some of its original properties with heat and the dry climate I live in.
I think Stereophile still rates them as a good damper. Also I forget the exact measurements but placement location on the tube is a contributor to their performance. You might look at ARCs website for that information.

just my opinion of course

Tried both the stock ARC and Herbies. If you haven’t tried the Herbies they’re better. As far as placement I always preferred them close to the top as you can get them. I found farther down you go you lose the magic.

+1

Not only that, but all (rpt all) other Tube dampers hurt the sound 🤕, including but not limited to silicon rings, ebony dampers, brass dampers, Swiss Ensemble woven copper sleeves, Tube Socks, and Tube Coolers (metal fins). Almost all dampers really are perfect examples of expectation bias in action.