Tube virgin no more

Great decision. I am very glad I went in the tube direction - although right now I have angst awaiting the delivery of some new tubes to try. I guess that's a good thing. I am curious to what direction are you thinking for speaker and amplification? Also, technically, aren't you still a tube virgin?

Well, yes, technically I am still a tube virgin. As soon as my wife (she's looking at paint chips. Glory be, this is the greatest thing that has ever happened in the way of WAF/speakers) decides on the color, I am going ahead ordering a pair of Definition 1.5s from Zu Cable. The amp I am going with is an Audion Sterling with some very serious vintage tubes. One being a pair of British Golden Lion KT88s. The audiophool I am purchasing the amp from (as soon as I can sell my Passion) has used his Sterling with the Definitions, as well. Loved it. It's a good start for me.... a journey I am very excited about. I will keep you posted. peace and Happy New Year to you all. warren

while I have some of you tubers here: How do I know when my tubes need to be changed? How many hours can I expect to get out of a set of tubes? Do some burn out faster than others? Any tube practices to prolong tube life? speak oh wise ones...thanks in advance...

Sometime,whom you buy the tubes from is more important than the brand.I've bought a lot of junk from private sellers. Spending the extra for extra testing makes 'cents' 2me.

For tube, you should check the Fertin fielcoil drivers. A Fertin 20EX(8inch) with a 38EX (15inch) in an open-baffle should be pretty good with tubes (100db-8ohms). It would cost less than the Definition 1.5. See the pictures in diyaudio(Fertin project-calling all open-baffle expert).