First Tube Amp: Advice? Keep spare tubes on hand?

I tend to agree with most here, especially Sogood51's reply. I would caution against buying spare tubes too soon. Make sure you like the amp first. I've made that mistake before, buying NOS tubes before the amp/preamp got here, then finding out that I didn't care for the unit no matter what tubes I put in.

Relax, once you find out if you like the new tube amp, there will be plenty of time to get into 'tube rolling'. Which usually leaves plenty of spares laying around......sometimes many more than you'd like to have lying around.

Cheers,
John

I agree Grant, buy why buy a spare set of tubes at all if one doesn't like the amp?
Example: maybe I decide I don't like the sound of this KT88 amp and want to try a EL34 based amp, or a 300B amp.

Yes, if he likes the amp he should get himself a back up set of tubes.....but let's not put the cart before the horse.

Cheers,
John

Richard,

Let us know your thoughts when you receive the amp. I'm assuming you bought it new since you're concerned about burn in. If so, then there probably will be a break in period. However, the good news is there should be some kind of warranty on the tubes, usually around 90 days. This will give you plenty of time for burn in and to decide if you like it or not. It should also give you tube replacement for free should you need it the first 90 days.

The cheapest you'll find a spare set of tubes will be about $110.

Cheers,
John