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Tube matching question

At the risk of this sounding like a dumb question I am going to ask anyway. I am new to tubes, so be gentle. I just received a quad of matched KT88's for my integrated. While so far they sound awesome there is one little thing that bothers me and I know its truly cosmetic, but one of the Gold lion labels is all messed up. It wouldn't make such a big deal but they face forward and you see these 3 beautiful looking gold lions and the one all messed up. When I asked the place about it they said thats the luck of the draw. I know cosmetics means nothing sound of course. My question is if I were to purchase another pair, how much would that mess up the matching if I were to replace 1 or 2 and then keep the others as a backup? Does that all sound dumb and I should just be happy they sound great?
Thanks
128x128jmphotography
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,974 posts
 
Your aesthetic preferences are your own business, but what I would say is that if you get 1 or 2 and they're technically measuring in line with what you have, it's not a bad idea to have a spare to rotate in in case one gives out.
jmphotography's avatar
jmphotography OP
161 posts
 
I failed to mention I just got them and only have like 8 hours on them 
tablejockey
3,916 posts
 
Based on your avatar, you have a PL. 

You don't have to be obsessed/concerned about matched pairs. Buy another tube for a perfect label. Life will be in balance. Don't worry.
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
I'm gonna guess, your amp is a stereo. If it is, buy a matched pair for one side. That's what I'd do. You didn't mention what type of amp. Normally in pairs is ok L/R don't get them mixed up after the replacement, just mark the new for one side or the other, but together...

Regards
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