Do you start fine tuning the system with cables or tubes ?

@audphile1 

"And dumping money into tubes with today’s prices, you are more likely to get better ROI out of component upgrade."

You're talking in absolutes; I just don't see it.

Nor do I. You get the most out of your system without major upgrades and only then move further if you are so inclined. But not $5k tube set for $3.5k integrated, no, that would be too extravagant, I got $1.5k tube set in it.

@inna 

"Nor do I. You get the most out of your system without major upgrades and only then move further if you are so inclined. But not $5k tube set for $3.5k integrated, no, that would be too extravagant, I got $1.5k tube set in it."

I just prefer to keep it stock and true to the designer's intent.

@faustuss 👍

re-tubing with stock tubes is maintenance. The OP was asking about fine tuning 

@inna you were asking about fine tuning your system with tubes or cables. My answer pertained to tubes. Fine tuning with tubes means you are tube rolling. 
Re-tubing the unit with a fresh set of “stock” manufacturer recommended tubes is not fine tuning. It’s simple maintenance. 
With 4 12AX7, 3 12AU7  and 4 EL34, if you enter a fine tuning game you’re not in a $1,500 price range. Power tubes make a difference so you’re rolling the entire tube compliment…signal and power all of it. 

This was the point I was trying to make. I wasn’t talking in absolutes. I was looking at it from a perspective of buying several sets of tubes to find the sound you like best. 
Like I said I have nothing against tubes. And VAC is really good stuff although I never heard your particular integrated. If you enjoy the process of tube rolling, go for it.