Nsgarch,
That is a terrific, detailed, answer. I believe the Cronus is an integrated amp, so we agree that the small signal tubes come first.
I would add to what you say that a particular tube may work better in one place than another -- if the amp uses the same kind of tube for the input/splitter and the driver, try the new tube in different locations.
You can drive yourself crazy (or have a lot of fun, depending on your inclinations) trying the almost endless variety of older tubes, but, that is a really BIG subject area.
That is a terrific, detailed, answer. I believe the Cronus is an integrated amp, so we agree that the small signal tubes come first.
I would add to what you say that a particular tube may work better in one place than another -- if the amp uses the same kind of tube for the input/splitter and the driver, try the new tube in different locations.
You can drive yourself crazy (or have a lot of fun, depending on your inclinations) trying the almost endless variety of older tubes, but, that is a really BIG subject area.