How important is it to match tubes in a preamp?

I have a CAT Ultimate that uses a 6922 for each channel (of the line and phono stages) and a third 6922 as cathode follower in each stage. Does the third tube contribute much to the sound? Can I get away with matched pairs of nos tubes and leave the Sovtek 6922 in the cathode follower position?

In my experience the cathode follower contributes the least to sound quality. Try it and see, you can't do any harm - it may well work and save you money.

Yes, it is important to march  left/ right channel with  matched tubes. Different locations can be different brands, or tubes. 

I try to always get Left / Right matched tubes whenever possible to ensure or hopefully ensure perfect channel balance 

With tubes like 6922 I also try to get matched triodes 

I just picked up a tube tester , mostly to prevent any bad tubes getting into my equipment.   I was up until midnight learning how to use it.  Was able to compare it to known values on new amplitrex and Apex matched tubes and it is extremely close to their readings.   I was the one guy on eBay this week that didn’t get screwed buying a tube tester.    

     It's been 19 years.

     Whatta ya bet: he's resolved his issue?

@oddiofyl -

     Enjoy that new Amplitrex (I'm jealous)!