Driver Tubes 6922

in integrated or power amp circuits, the input tube is generally considered more important than the driver tubes in front of the power tubes ’being driven’

reason being that the input tube is the actual gain stage, expanding the low level signal, and is first in receiving the incoming signal (thus having more stringent requirements in terms of noise and transconductance/mu) than the driver stage after it, which simply works to stabilize the impedance and signal delivered into the power tubes for them to do their work

this may help you understand better ... https://www.primaluna-usa.com/tube-rolling

I agree with jss...   in my Mid Monos a 6922 that may not be really quiet in a Preamp will work fine in the driver pos.   

I use JJ in there now and I think its the input tube that make the most difference in these.   

I have some early 60's RCA 12ax7 at the input and these amps have never sounded better.     When I bought them at about a year old the former owner also really liked RCA because there were early RCA 12ax7 in there.   

Thanks for the correction.

Are there affordable nos input tubes or a stellar modern input tube you guys can recommend?

Depends on the amount you are willing to spend?  I have a Lab12 DAC 1 Reference that takes 2 6922’s. I prefer old stock tubes on the warmer or neutral side with detail.  My experience rolling:

$- Amperex Bugle Boy 6DJ8 Holland (excellent value with great SQ)

$$- Amperex 6922 Holland

      Amperex 6922 USA

$$$- French Phillips E188cc/7308 labeled RT, RTC, Dario Miniwatt,Mazda=My Fav

        Amperex 7308 Holland (or USA) SQ or PQ label best

        Siemens E88cc/6922 Germany (little brighter)

Talk to and look at Brent Jessee and his website.  Very helpful and informative.  Good luck with it all.  Tom