2. amps-preamps
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Is it common for tubes to outweigh the cost of the amp or preamp?

I just got my first tube (headphone) amp and was wondering if it is common to spend more on the tubes than the actual cost of the amp. The amp was $599 with stock tubes. I just ordered NOS driver tubes that ran $640 for the pair and the power tube upgrade I'm planning will be another $300. That has the tubes sitting at 1.5 times the cost of the amp itself.

I don't find the total of $1539 for the amp and upgraded tubes unreasonable but considering the next model (amp) up is $1199, it has me wondering what would be better... a lower cost amp with superior tubes or a higher cost amp with stock tubes?
samiamnot

Showing 1 response by lalitk

lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,640 posts
 
I would have stepped up to next model before investing in those CCa’s. Having said that, you did buy a very rare variant of 6922 tube. Those Siemens are excellent tubes and going to last you a very long time. 

If they don’t work out with current amp, hopefully you can use them with $1199 amp 😊
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