what brand of tubes to buy?

Stanman is your friend just letting you use this piece of gear? I only ask because it wouldn't make to much sense to buy your friend new tubes unless you really like him. I wish I had more friends like you.

Here is a link to an article that talks about this pre-amp. http://www.stereotimes.com/amp040306.shtml

If it is now yours and wanting to play "roll tubes" the choices are very personal and it's hard to say what you will like. I have never used the rectifier used in this unit. But here are my personal opinions on the 12at7. Remember they are my own and other peoples will differ.

I like the German best. I currently use Siemens E81cc in my amp and Valvo 12at7wa in my pre-amp.

The British tubes are nice and have good midrange but seem a little too polite in my opinion. I have Mullard CV4024 and Brimar CV 4024.

I feel the stock Shuguangs are not bad tubes for the price.

Jan Philips 12at7's are not a bad tube and can be had pretty cheap. A bit romantic and slightly rolled off but still darn nice.

Haven't tried any others

Detredwings sums it up nicely.

Thanks for the input, ya he's trying to intice me,and the sob did just that!LOL the sonics and sound quality ie: detail,and presense is intense. Did not think this amp and speakers (vintage 92 epi 150/2/3 were capable of such sound preasures and detail, also have some old polk (80's I think) rta-12b's to try.but I've been converted! Do intend to buy the pre, price and value seem very good to me. I know there vintage pres out there that are better but price and value is right for my 1st dip into the tube" pool" it seems to match up nicely with the parasound and the speakers so I don't have to invest in any new speakers, at this time LOL. Guess I'm going to have to play around cause I like such a wide array of music types. Thanks oh so and others welcome to coment.