What is stock?
It doesn't really matter because tube cliches always are true. For instance the oldest version is better than the latter production.
The European brands if not under some communist or dictator's government are better than the U.S. versions.
If you like a clean strong signal which to many may seem sterile use West German Siemans or even better fine filament Telefunkens.
If you want warmth and musicality then use the oldest Blackburn Mullards you can find.
If you want detail and holographic imaging the the Heerlen early 60s Amperex will be your best choice.
The American tubes are the sleepers here, try the RCA clear top or Sylvania Gold Brand. The black glass tubes are best however and they were all made by Tung Sol no matter what the label says.
If there is a choice always get the gold pin version.
The industrial or military tubes are rugged/durable and less prone to microphonics .
The mislabled Japanese Matsushitas are great for the money.
The JAN from the 80s are cheap and sound thin.
The NOS Russian version is better than all of them but avoid the new production like the plague.
The obscure drop in replacement was half the price until the supply dried up.
It doesn't really matter because tube cliches always are true. For instance the oldest version is better than the latter production.
The European brands if not under some communist or dictator's government are better than the U.S. versions.
If you like a clean strong signal which to many may seem sterile use West German Siemans or even better fine filament Telefunkens.
If you want warmth and musicality then use the oldest Blackburn Mullards you can find.
If you want detail and holographic imaging the the Heerlen early 60s Amperex will be your best choice.
The American tubes are the sleepers here, try the RCA clear top or Sylvania Gold Brand. The black glass tubes are best however and they were all made by Tung Sol no matter what the label says.
If there is a choice always get the gold pin version.
The industrial or military tubes are rugged/durable and less prone to microphonics .
The mislabled Japanese Matsushitas are great for the money.
The JAN from the 80s are cheap and sound thin.
The NOS Russian version is better than all of them but avoid the new production like the plague.
The obscure drop in replacement was half the price until the supply dried up.