Which tubes to use?

[I am Legion]

@ Speedemon

All my NOS tubes were won off Ebay.co.uk for peanuts. I've won Mullard's recently for ?15! Bear in mind we pay ?10-16 for new production tubes in the U.K.

 

[Tubes In a Hat]

I haven't really experienced issues with any of my JJ preamp tubes... I kinda like the Sovtek LPS tubes too...

For me, it would just be nice to be able to get "decent" sounding, reliable tubes, that are consistently made and are easy to find...

While we're on it, how do you "test" tubes? I have a multi meter... please excuse my ignorance

 

[Mattfig]

I haven't really experienced issues with any of my JJ preamp tubes... I kinda like the Sovtek LPS tubes too...

For me, it would just be nice to be able to get "decent" sounding, reliable tubes, that are consistently made and are easy to find...

While we're on it, how do you "test" tubes? I have a multi meter... please excuse my ignorance

You get a tube tester. I have one that's very old but works great...You gotta be careful 'cause it's easy to fry them - at least with mine...

Nowadays I hear there are digital tube testers on the market that give you a simple "good, great, fucked, or soon to be fucked" readout...

 

[speedemon]

Yes,

you could buy a tube tester. I thought about it myself, but I am fortunate there is a tube dealer near my work who will do it. I am "lucky" that I live in L.A., overcrowded an overflowing with musicians, and every service is readily available. Chances are good an amp repairman will have one as well and be willing to do it.

good luck!