Line Magnetic 508ia and the Elusive 805 Tube



Greetings, my fellow 'Goners.

I'm the very happy owner of a Line Magnetic 508ia integrated amp, a real powerhouse with a wonderful sound. I have replaced all of the stock tubes except the 805 tubes, as the stock tubes have suited me just fine. However, after a year or so of stellar play, one of them is showing signs of not being able to hold bias, so it may be time to experiment with some other tubes. Fine, but when I began looking around, I discovered that 805 tubes are not exactly plentiful across the land, nor is there much conversation about them. I found some on eBay--the Fullmusic look interesting, but pricey. My usual sources for tubes have none at all in stock.

So my questions are whether anyone out there with an LM 508 has tried rolling the 805 tube, what were your results, and--most importantly--where did you track them down?

I was very pleased with the results of rolling the 300B, 6SN7, and 6SL7 tubes, but the 805 options are relatively limited. Any insights, links, etc., would be most appreciated.


128x128waltersalas
Just a quick note to say thanks for all of the valuable input from OP and everyone else.  I’ve had my 508 for about a year and love it.  I now find myself with some time and will investigate replacing some of the tubes, and now know where to go to replace the 805s when necessary.  
Any more impressions from folks regarding their favorite NOS 805 tube. I currently have RCAs but was looking to try a different brand. What are your top two NOS 805s?
@adamaley 

I've been thinking about trying the Psvane ACME Supremes 805s.  Have you any experience with them?

are the products China HiFi sales legitimate Line Magnetic?  i was told by the distributor in in Thailand that they are not?  but maybe he just wanted me to buy the 805IA which is 2x the price of the 508IA as listed on the China Hifi site?

China Hifi is Black Market stuff no one knows where the stock really comes from.