Originally Posted by: RazboLots of debate if there is actually a benefit, and then, even if you think so, are you even getting the real thing??[/quote]
And even when you get the real thing (authentic NOS tubes) there is no standard of quality from tube to tube depending upon how it was stored, if the corrosion on the pins significantly affects tone, etc.
[QUOTE=Razbo]
I've seen an amp advertised in a NOS and non-NOS version for [Edit: $70] more for the NOS version. Not sure I'd bother spending the extra cash for it.
I've been told by an engineer with experience to back it up they can & do work better & last longer. But the caveat is that the design of the amp you put one in is crucial. You can't just put an NOS into any given amp & expect it to sound better than the tubes it originally came with. This is because the best amp designs are made with the values of all the components & tubes in mind & viewed as an integrated whole.
I've played Marshalls with 6550s & EL34s; Fenders with 6L6s, 6V6s & EL34s. I've never heard one combination that was consistently better than another. Way too many other factors in the equation.
More geekery to ponder. :)
