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recommended 6922 tubes for a moderate price?

Hello fellow A'goners!
I'm new to tube rolling and have a modest budget, but want to try upgrading the driver tubes (6922's or their equivalents) for my Onix SP-3 integrated amp. I'm driving Vandersteen 2ce's and generally prefer blues, jazz, and classic rock. Hoping to improve that "live" quality and "3D" soundstaging. Would like to keep it under $100 a pair, but don't know how to navigate the world of tubes quite yet. Some of the prior info. may be irrelevant but any suggestions from wiser audiophile brethren is much appreciated! Thanks!
lincnabby
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mingles
799 posts
 
I second the JAN-Phillips 6922 for a moderately priced option.

I also caution you with ebay. You'll find all sorts of unbelievable bargains like Bugle Boys for $30/pair, but you won't get any guarantee they're usable. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. I had to learn the hard way. Now I only buy tubes from vendors with a good reputation. I've had good experiences with Doug's Tubes, Brent Jesse, the Tube Store and folks on Audiogon and Audio Asylum. I've heard good things about Andy at Vintage Tube Services.

Good luck.
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
5,064 posts
 
I recommend giving Kevin Deal at Upscale Audio a call or e-mail. He has NEVER steered me wrong. I have bought MANY tubes from him, off of his suggestions.
calbrs03
184 posts
 
The above mentioned names are very useful. I've used Jesse and Deal to good advantage. IMO, excellent NOS tubes as a driver at or around $100 would be Tungstram, Mitsubishi and Tesla, in that order. You'll hear a difference between them. Amperex, however, will probably be what you're looking for, but not at your price.
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ncarv
983 posts
 
Another vote for the JAN-Phillips. Very inexpensive and very good quality.
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