Only common, and desirable tubes are being gouged.. My forthcoming amp uses e180f for the driver / input position, I just picked up a pair of NOS Telefunken for $150. A lot , sure , but imagine if they were CCA or 12ax7? I bought Mullard and Amperex e180f and they were between $6 and $20 each for true nos. First time in 20 years getting a break on the price of tubes.