Hey Bradz,
I'm also curious. I don't want to bias your findings, but the 99 uses the 6SN7's octal tubes which are known to reduce grain and smooth things out. The 6SN7 is a much better tube than the small 12AX tubes IMO. Are you getting the Magnum version? Be sure to fill the Power supply with sand. The hole for the sand is done at the factory now, so it's OK to do it yourself if it's not there.
I'm also curious. I don't want to bias your findings, but the 99 uses the 6SN7's octal tubes which are known to reduce grain and smooth things out. The 6SN7 is a much better tube than the small 12AX tubes IMO. Are you getting the Magnum version? Be sure to fill the Power supply with sand. The hole for the sand is done at the factory now, so it's OK to do it yourself if it's not there.