Can the Same Brand Power Tubes Have a Different Sound When Bought From Different Vendors?


I'm not talking about major differences but those subtle changes like tighter bass, more sparkling highs, better definition between instruments,  bigger soundstage, etc.? Is this what you get when you purchase through the vendors that hand select and match at operating temps and check more of the parameters that isn't necessarily checked by the factory? IOW, , will I get a better set of power tubes from a vendor who checks their tubes more closely that those who sell the factory  Apex matched tubes direct from the factory? IOW, other than life span what is better about the tubes which come from the better vendors?

I assume this is so but I don't like to assume? The reason I'm asking is because I have a set of Gold Lion KT88 and am considering another set of Gold Lions KT88 from one of the better vendors IE Jim McShane.  I like to have a backup set and switch them out from time to time. The ones I now have were factory matched.  Thanks for your help.
artemus_5

Showing 2 responses by artemus_5

@oldhvymec

To the POINT..
Oh heck yes.. 5% or less vs 10% if your lucky. Cary HATES non matched signal valves. Just ruins the sound. BUT matched.. night and day.. Like heaven.. All the difference in the world.

I've read  that the hand picked and matched tubes are matched to a lower percentage than the factory matched. has that been your experience?

ebm
 I was referring especially to new production tubes, not NOS (though I am considering NOS Svetlana Winged "C" 6550. Good Choice?)

@ drrsutliff
I have dealt with Jim on several occasions and I agree with your assessment.

Maybe I'll try this again. If I buy a quad of Gold Lion  KT88's from Upscale Audio and another from Vacuum Tube Values who has factory matched tubes, What will the differences be?