I didn't build one, but I did get the Signature Platinum version, factory-built, and no tubes broke in shipping. It's my first SET 300B amp, but I've had good amps before, like Pass Aleph 3's used as monoblocks, and I LOVE the Assmblage, while I rather ENJOYED and ADMIRED the Aleph 3. Of course you'll need speakers that it can handle. I got fairly good results in a big room with Dunlavy SC-II's but am now getting great results, about 15 decibels lower on the volume control, with Oris 150 horns.