My friend buys really extravagant tubes, used. Telefunken 12AX7 are his favorite pick. He pays a fraction of what people do for NOS. Then, he tests them using a far more elaborate method than most - using an ocilloscope as opposed to a tube tester. He ends up with piles of incredibly good sounding tubes (better than a lot of NOS in actual use), and again, at bargain basement prices.
Why Purchase used tubes?
Is it the price? I don't understand. You buy a wonderful used tubes that tests out better than perfect. What is the guarantee, after you hook those babies up to your rig, that they won't start to degenerate. NOS are surely more expensive, but brand spanking new! Would this be the best way to go if money wasn't a factor? I'm tubie newbie, but getting there...thanks warren :)