Tube question - need new ones


I have a Conrad Johnson tube preamp and amp. I need new tubes. Conrad Johnson charges an arm and a leg for tubes. Do I really need the expensive tubes from them. Can anyone suggest a cheaper vendor?
sajungdahl
Another recommendation for Jim McShane, which goes by the name McShane Design. He is a sponsor of Tube Asylum on Audio Asylum and can be found there as well.
c-j tells you that you should only use tubes purchased from them. They may test their tubes more than others but there is nothing unique about their tubes. You can buy tubes from other vendors and many people do.

Many people also tube roll in c-j amps and preamps and often find tubes that they prefer from manufacturers other than the ones c-j uses.

There may be a problem with the warranty if you use tubes not purchased from c-j so I would ask them about that. I don't know if there is any problem or not, but if you have to send anything back to c-j for warranty work make sure you have c-j sourced tubes in the gear.
if cj factory asks to send amp with tubes for warranty service, you should keep originals, but use any so you can send them unit back.
I have excellent feedback with Jesse Brent. Superb service and a thorough gentleman. highly recommended.
When I had a CJ amp I bought/replaced the 6550s from a variety of online dealers at a fraction of the cost quoted by CJ. YMMV
How about a shout for Roger Modjeski? He does tubes specifically for CJ and his RAM tubes are always good one's. tubeaudiostore.com is the address and the prices are good for what you are getting.