Audio Research LS28SE vs McIntosh C53

Just be careful with any tube electronics.  While on the surface, it seems it can be fixed at any old shop, you may be in for a long wait if something does go wrong.  My ARC ref 10 blew a tube once, took the surrounding "sacrificial" resistors with it.  TOok about 6 months to get back on its feet.  

I have heard Audio Research has reduced their backlog to less than a month. 

Although changing tubes is not a hazardous process. 

I realize that tubes are not prone to defect, however they can fail. Just as transistors can fail and the cure for a failed tube is much easier than that of a failed transistor or cap. But it is still a possibility of change that I am drawn to investigate. I may or may-not make the change, but it is still something I may decide to do. I have received some great advice and food for thought here. 
One thing I haven’t seen is suggestions for other solid state pre-amps that should be considered. I actually find that reassuring that if I do make the change, that McIntosh will be my consideration. As far as changing to a McIntosh Tube pre is not an option for me. I will just stay with my LS28SE if that is the case. 
now I do have another question that comes to mind, I was told by a well known tube dealer that I should be changing the 6H30 tubes at 2000 hours not 4000 as ARC recommends. I kind of figured, hmmm a tube dealer recommends me buying tubes twice as frequently than before. So I’d be curious what you guys think.

Tube vs SS - a wonderful challenge to have. I really like ARC but am still uncomfortable with dealing with tubes. 
 

Yet I don’t mind changing the oil in my car. In the end it’s about choices and if you can audition, audition and understand the new product roadmap. There may be additional opportunities regarding new products aa well as getting deals on demos or used units.