Metropoulos Forum

I've never really tried NOS preamp tubes in my amps, I've just followed the amp builders lead with new production tubes.

I'm wondering, given the cost of NOS tubes, whether some of you slot NOS in all preamp positions, or do you save them for V1 only?

I have several Amperex Bugle Boys, a Mullard AT7 and a Philips 12AX7WA. Otherwise all new production.

I guess I'm wondering if people just line up, say, three Bugle Boys across V1-V3, or mix them with new production, or maybe mix in other NOS.

Any suggestions?

A lot of people will have all NOS, but have their "best" preamp tube in V1, because V1 affects the tone most. It all comes down to preference really, just do what you're happy with.