Rotating (not rolling) Tubes

@oldhvymec If he’s not using the phono stages, would it cause any harm to leave those tube positions empty, no tubes? Or how about putting old past-their-prime tubes in the unused positions?

You will use up the tubes leaving them on even though there is no signal going through them, but not as fast as if there was signal going through them.

Thanks for the reply oldhvymec. You made me think of another question. If I replaced the tubes with better (more expensive matched) tubes, is it okay to just replace the two main tubes? It seems like it would, but as far as I know, power could be running through all the tubes, each one affecting the sound in a slight way.

It's a good idea to check and rotate. Make sure they are staying matched, WHY? well the 2300 sounds a lot better with balanced HQ valves, at least in 'pairs". Good idea with a slight mod... 

My Macs all use 12AX7s, some the 12AT7 and 12AU7.. I normally buy in pairs...  unless I buy "lots", I can't remember buying a single valve in my life. Even Rectifier valves in pairs, because I run monoblocks too..

Just so you know, that 2300, can be quite a little nugget.. A pair of Tellies in the mains and, RCA, Volvo, Mullard, PSVANE... ALL have a wonderful "different" sonic signature... Different music, different valves... different sound... Have a little spice in your life... Enjoy...

Regards