I do agree with your suspicions, BUT I am a big fan of First saving up and paying CASH. Especially in our current economy. Secondly It should be a time to study the facts and what is worthy or MIGHT be worthy in a replacement tube. Not all tubes are made equal. You know exactly what you currently had so don't be in a rush. Save a little longer find out just a little bit more and definitely ASK MORE QUESTIONS about what you might replace those tubes with. Possibly even find someone that offers a satisfaction guarantee.
Audio Research - should I replace the valves?
I have a AR Ref 110 power amp and AR Ref 3 preamp. Both have done about 3,800 hours. They both work but I wonder if should be replacing the valves.
How can you tell if they’ve had it? Does the sound quality deteriorate & what happens if you don’t replace them?
i don’t think they sounds as good as they did but no pops or whistles or any other strange noises etc - just a bit flat sounding. But perhaps this is just my ears?
pp