Tube Flavor

Tubes vary per unit.

Start by numbering or otherwise identifying each tube and 'roll' a pair at a time. For a small power amp w 2 different input and 2 power valves per channel there are 96 permutation. [2 x 2 x 24] With 2 same input tubes and 2 power tubes per channel, there are 576 permutations. [24 x 24]

Add in power line, humidity, temperature and CBLF vagaries...

IMO, rolling is an utter waste of time. One combination may favor one particular program to the detriment of another. 

@jerryg123 The recipe for becoming a "lonely old man" it to be mean and impolite as a younger one. There's a difference between disagreeing with someone or pointing out their mistakes and demeaning them or calling them names. Yes, I have "sensibilities." They are ones that my parents raised me with -- be kind, be polite, listen carefully, and keep an open mind. It's not rocket science, but some still find it very hard to do. Look inward. Figure out why you're so mean. Heal yourself. Otherwise, have fun now, because a lonely life lies ahead for you. We're done.

@hilde45 YAWN!!!!!!!

b_limo,

You're having a blast with your new tube integrated amp purchase, congratulations! Looks like you got some good advice and learnings from people on this thread too.

I don't have tubes at the moment, but am considering it, so thanks for bringing up the conversation about where to start, tube brands, sources, etc. And thanks to everyone else that took the time to provide helpful information and/or share their experiences.

hilde45, thank you for your comments, I personally found them very useful. Seems that almost every thread is spoiled by someone these days, too bad. I tried to defend someone yesterday, but ended up being dragged through the mud for it. Oh well, doesn't bother me that some people are that unhappy in life and (try) to take it out on others.