03-10-12: PdreherHey, Paul, that's good to know! Another reason being that if a tube ever fails, it would therefore be safe to operate the amp with a row of tubes removed, while a replacement is being obtained.
In talking to Brent @ VAC, I've found a way to get the sound of my old 30/30 out of my 70/70 Sig. by simply taking out a row (quad) of 300B's. In doing so, I essentially now have a 30/30 Signature in the body of a 70/70 Sig.
To be sure I am understanding properly, what could be removed would be either the four 300B's that are closest to the rear of the amp, or the four 300B's that are closest to the front of the amp. Is that correct?
Very glad, also, that your Ulysses ultimately worked out well.
Best regards,
-- Al