1st full tube amp Oldchen EL34

I have 2 hybrid amps (ss amp with tube pre) and really like them. This was my first attempt at a pure tube amp and didn’t want to spend a bunch. This presented itself for sub $200. Jasonbourne I understand that you generally get what you pay for and could possibly have far more experience with china manufacturing than 90% of  Americans, but this was perfect for my value proposition to tinker without toasting a $1000 plus amp. I also have my own concerns about safety which is why I plan to do some upgrades. I had a chance 2 years ago to buy quicksilver monos but hesitated and missed them. Really just looking for feedback on known weaknesses, possible safety issues, and simple mods to improve beyond its current state- not equal to a multi thousand dollar amp - just improve this limited amp. 

Understood and again this was an opportunity but not a nirvana situation. I have the top of the Line LSA HYBRID that drives my Thiel CS5s and totally pleased. I have a bardominium playground for my grandkids and this is where I like to tinker. Heresy’s, Chorus 1s, and Quartets are the available speakers at this location. I change between Bryston, Mitsubishi, Lexicon, NAD, and other assorted amps. Most I have brought back from dead. And most sound better today than when new due to better parts. Never opened a tube amp and I have a significant amount of respect for the damage they can do if mishandled. Variac on-site and have still smoked some things in the past. 😉

Thanks DeKay. I have worked with capacitors in ss amps so I understand the need to discharge for safety. I will order the rectifier and see what happens. I believe this is the same amp. May have also been labeled Laochen on other units. 

Rectifier is currently PSVANE

Thanks for all the responses. After a few hours of listening I am generally pleased with the $150 spent. I may pass on upgrading as I saw the silicone inside and have zero interest in prying stuff loose. It will remain as is and be enjoyed. Tubes may or may not be my thing. Stressing over heat, bias, and high voltage may get in the way of just listening. The engineer in me may just be too curious to actually enjoy them.