2. amps-preamps
  3. 128671-18279

Why no tube loaner/testdrives--It's hard being an audiophile

I just wanted to vent for a moment. I'm going to quote my wife and file this under "It's hard being an audiophile" as there is some absurdity to the fact that I view this issue as a real life problem.

The issue: 

My Primaluna integrated amp has 6 premp tubes and 8 power tubes.  While the unit makes tube rolling a snap, it's (a) difficult to find or at reasonable prices NOS tubes in larger batches; (b) reissue or new tubes cost a bunch to experiment with. 

For example, if I want to swap in a set of Gold Lion KT77 power tubes (I've already tried the stock EL34s and Mullard re-issues), it's a small fortune to do so.  I think the GL KT77 may be the ticket, yet making another expenditure to find out seems pricey.  I wish I could borrow a set and pay a tryout fee, as opposed to spending $400 on a set. 
128x128jbhiller
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,361 posts
 
@riley804 , You sound smarter than me with such foresight.  Glad you took the time to tell me this. 
riley804
1,224 posts
 
@jbhiller .........not smarter, I just know what I can and cant afford in this so called " hobby " and spending a large amount on tubes is not one of them.


devilboy
1,173 posts
 
Nothing to add here other than I got a good laugh at many posts cuz I can relate. Thanks guys.
sebrof's avatar
sebrof
834 posts
 
I'd say the reason there are no "tube loaners" is that tubes don't have serial numbers so someone could borrow a new set and return a spent set.
Cables don't have serial numbers either, but they aren't consumed with use.
jafant
18,932 posts
 
Any hobby worth its participation will cost a fee. $400 for a set of tubes is nothing.  Happy Listening!
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