The input is where the circuit has to get it right. It doesn't matter how good things are downstream if the input fails to do its job as best it can!
Which Preamp Tube is most consequential: Input or Gain
I've just gotten a pair of 1950s Tung-Sols for my Schiit Freya to replace two of the stock Russian NOS 6SN7. I will try them in both positions, but is there a typical position of more impact in terms of rolling preamp tubes in the input vs. gain positions? Thanks for any experience you'd like to share.