No of course not, no rip offs...been "off the air" for several years and not sure what is what these days! Also don't know where to turn for answers except this forum.
The amps have NOS 1956 French 12AU7's for the inputs (at least I think that's the tube ID without checking) and upgraded KT88's as well. They produce the silkiest 3-D soundstage I've ever heard, through Soundlab hybrid electrostatic speakers. Listening to "Animals" album by PF is genuinely freaky.
Thanks for your comments,
Paul