2. amps-preamps
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Advice about what to do with not-needed tubes?

I recently tried out a tube preamp that I had to return because of a buzz in one channel. Now I'm on the fence about repurchasing the same model or going "tubeless," since my particular system didn't really benefit from tubes more than a little bit and I can't afford to go with tubes whole hog. So, my question as a tube neophyte is, assuming I don't replace the unit, should I return the NOS tubes I bought back to the various resellers and pay the restocking fees, or would it be smarter to wait and sell them later? They're mainly 12at7s. Judging from discussion boards, tubes appreciate in value with scarcity. Not seeing a lot of gear that uses 12at7s, though, so I'm not sure about these. In particular, I've got some that are in white boxes because they were from bulk lots.
I'm also wondering about the fact that I'm a total unknown when I go to sell, so it'll just be my word plus pics as to the condition and "provenance" of the tubes. I'd appreciate any advice.

[I tried to post this before, listing the equipment, but it was declined. Trying again in more general terms, since it seems a perfectly appropriate question for the community, particularly given how many posts in this thread are about tubes as well as tube preamps/amps]
adlevision
adlevision OP
11 posts
 
Oh, and @Timrhu: certainly swapped the tubes. I think it may have been a loose tube socket, since that one rattled just a little bit when I tapped it. Or ungrounded wire, or wire touching the transformer. Seemed unlikely to be just a ground loop, being only in once channel regardless of outlet and with nothing plugged into the inputs.

I actually had asked for a replacement, not a refund (including 2-way shipping, which was nice), but now I have the choice to repurchase, wait for a used one to go up for sale here, or to call it an educational experience and move on. The freedom to decide is nice...except when it isn't:) I'd hate to rebuy and have that one buzz to--not good for either me or the seller. Anyway, input on that issue is welcome, but I feel like I got my thread question answered by the above posts.
wolf_garcia
6,695 posts
 
Note that there are very few vegetarian ham radio operators.
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,763 posts
 
Put them on Ebay and make millions.
ebm
9,311 posts
 
Save them they will be worth a fortune in 20 yrs or so.
trelja
3,223 posts
 
Don't take either of these suggestions the wrong way, but what I do is:
1) Use them as Christmas tree decorations. Honestly, tie a string around them, and hang them on the tree. They actually look pretty cool, particularly, the coke bottle output and rectifier tubes. But your 12AT7s will suffice

2) Give them away. The minuscule amount of money that will come back to you in a sale will prove of little consequence compared to the goodwill of sending them along to someone who could actually use and appreciate them
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