Tubes for a pre stage... matched NEW or unmatched identical NOS?

FYI, I really haven't enjoyed any newer tubes, all of my favorites are NOS. I do use matched tubes for each channel of my 2 channel amp.

For the money, it is very hard to beat 1960s RCA "Clear Top" tubes; you can usually find them for about $20 or so each and they are terrific.

If you want next level it will cost you, I really enjoy Amperex tubes. My favorites are Amperex 7308 PQs, Amperex 7316 "Long Plates", Amperex 6922 PQs, and Phillips 12AU7s.

$30 new production tubes, or $20 RCA Clear Tops…..no comparison 

I think many of you know that Brent Jessee is one of the most reputable providers of NOS tubes out there. He will have one of the largest selections, and the tubes go through a rigorous testing before being sold.....and he warrants all of his tubes for 30 days, and many for up to 2 years (not sure of the difference)

This link will take you to the best page I have ever seen on 6DJ8/12AU7/6922/7308/ECC88/E88CC/CCA/6N23P(Russian)/etc. He explains the difference in tube suppliers and their country of origin, and what to expect sound wise from each version of the tube, even how to translate date codes to date your tubes. NOTE: He focuses mostly on Euro tubes, with some information on American and Japanese tubes as well. It's a long read, but should definitely be bookmarked and printed out for future reference....especially for tube rollers.

http://www.audiotubes.com/6dj8.htm

Brent also carries a large selection of rare rectifier and power tubes.

Certainly all tubes are subject to system matching. My amp tends to run a little laid back, so the extra detail from the clear tops was welcome. Yes my Amperex and Philips tubes best the clear tops…..but now we’re into $200 to $600 for a pair of tubes, and not $40

Another surprise, early to mid 80s 6N23P Russian tubes (Rocket logo)