Man, roberjerman, you really should try the proposed change before you comment, because you clearly haven't. Making theoretical pronouncements with an arrogant tone is sad (capiche?).
Even regulators influence the resulting sound of the component. I am speaking from actual "ears on" experience, as it has been true in most tube gear that I have run. The Sovtek vs. Winged C comparison is a very clear sonic shift, IME in my AR Ref 40 - - likely would be so in a Ref 6, too. I have read that others like the Tung Sol's sound, but haven't experienced that myself (but I bet it does have its own presentation).
I do agree with Cleeds that you shouldn't just try any 6550 you can get your hands on. AR can provide guidance for what you try.
Even regulators influence the resulting sound of the component. I am speaking from actual "ears on" experience, as it has been true in most tube gear that I have run. The Sovtek vs. Winged C comparison is a very clear sonic shift, IME in my AR Ref 40 - - likely would be so in a Ref 6, too. I have read that others like the Tung Sol's sound, but haven't experienced that myself (but I bet it does have its own presentation).
I do agree with Cleeds that you shouldn't just try any 6550 you can get your hands on. AR can provide guidance for what you try.