oops, I think I remembered a previous post from you incorrectly or just assumed the EI's were new production. sorry! Yes, I plan to try power tubes but first I want to try some 12AX7's and the the AUs. I agree, 6550's would be the ticket. Although, it is probably going to be a year before I get around to the power tubes.
I was thinking Mullards because I tend to think that my speakers (Axioms) are, if not neutral, perhaps lean towards bright. If were overly critical and in a bad mood, I might say that. I actually don't think the amp with the stock tubes is anywhere close to being too warm. I never did find out what tubes came with the unit.