Octave Audio V70SE tube recommendations

Some good advice here from @tpreaves ​​​​@lowrider57 

 I agree that you need some more time on your tubes.Don't be in a hurry to start changing things.

Thanks for the input. I purchased the octave about 7 months ago. Probably have about listening 300-400 hrs on the stock tubes, and 20-30 hrs on the new input tubes. But, seems like the consensus is, I need to burn in the new, input tubes longer, Before changing out the output and/ or exploring the super black box option.

Again, thank you all !

So, the output tubes are fully burned in. I believe the input tube in the gain stage (12AX7) has the most influence on sonics followed by the drivers/phase inverters. If these were true NOS tubes, which are a rarity these days, they might take 50-60 hrs for burn-in. You're at a point that you should be hearing the sound settling in. I've used the black plates for years, the highs should become smoother and less sharp (there will still be some detail up top), but it shouldn't sound harsh. The soundstage should be opening up and the bass will become deeper.

FYI, all amp designs are different and a certain tube type can have a different presentation in that circuit. These are some of the sonic  attributes you should start noticing.

I am personally not a fan of the 6550 tube at least not new productions, you may want to try EL34's if you want a warmer sound.