At Radio Shack, there are non-shedding replacements for Q-tips so no particles accidentally transfer from tube pins into tube sockets. Another way to go is to use tiny, pointed, non-shedding eye cosmetic applicators from the cosmetic section at any pharmacy. These are what seem to be included with the wonderful Walker Audio SST contact enhancer, for use on tube pins, only after your mystery problem has first been definitely solved. Caig makes contact cleaner-enhancer suitable for tube pins, but other Audiogon members can comment whether there is any type, and concentration, of ordinary alcohol also acceptable for preliminary cleaning of tube pins.
Owning tube equipment is more fussy than transistor equipment, and I have been saved more than once from the sound of silence, by having at least one backup tube of each type used in my components. This is one of the prices paid to stay on the side of the angels.
Owning tube equipment is more fussy than transistor equipment, and I have been saved more than once from the sound of silence, by having at least one backup tube of each type used in my components. This is one of the prices paid to stay on the side of the angels.