Can excellent tubes transcend modest amps?


I am wondering how far a good but not amazing amp design with decent parts such as Antique Sound Lab AQ1003 DT or a Jolida 302B can be improved by putting top notch NOS tubes? In other words, is it worth buying a used $500 integrated and give it an extreme tube make over for $200-400 rather than buying say a PrimaLuna or Cayin in the $800-900 range with its stock tubes?
kanuk

Showing 1 response by mrtennis

there is no definitive answer to the question posed by kanuk. until the criterion of "better sound" is denoted, the best course of action is to listen to an assortment of tubes, where there are return privilegs , to determine ifsonic improvements can be attained.

there is a risk when buying another amp, just as there is a risk of dissatisfaction when changing tubes.

our hobby is based upon subjective evaluation, personal preference and a lack of predictability.

it is best to be an empiricist without preconceptions.
without the facility to listen to alternatives, one is left with speculation and risk.