Lousey, sounds like you have the same amp as I have. Great amp all around. Go with the Mullard ECC88 gold pin tube. As Boa2 suggested, the VDH cord works great with the amp. If you can, get the Cardas posts, rcas and the Kimbar caps installed. This will also make a change for the better.
I also bought mine used about 3 years ago. I usually left it powered on on the mute select unless I knew I would be away for a couple of days or so. Leaving it on, with proper venting was never a problem. For a cheap tweek, mass load the top to reduce vibration and put some cones or 3 HRS feet underneath.
As Boa2 suggested, you can use this amp as a power amp, preamp or leave it as a int. amp. Happy listening.
I also bought mine used about 3 years ago. I usually left it powered on on the mute select unless I knew I would be away for a couple of days or so. Leaving it on, with proper venting was never a problem. For a cheap tweek, mass load the top to reduce vibration and put some cones or 3 HRS feet underneath.
As Boa2 suggested, you can use this amp as a power amp, preamp or leave it as a int. amp. Happy listening.