Who made a tube and where isn’t nearly as important as how the tubes perform right now and the gear they’re matched with. Unless you have the money and the inclination to try all the possibilities yourself doing business with a great vendor is the best way to spend the money you do have.
I do agree with your premise, though, the new productions tubes I've tried lately don't give up much if anything to the vintage tubes I have.
I do agree with your premise, though, the new productions tubes I've tried lately don't give up much if anything to the vintage tubes I have.