Best KT88s (specifically for VAC Auricle Musiblocs)


I'm using a KT88 based amp for the first time - the VAC Auricle Musicblocs. I just had them serviced but one of the cheap Svetlanas blew, probably from my biasing it too high, and its been replaced by a used Genalex Gold Lion for the moment. The amps sound very good as it is, but I'd like to get the best out of them with a good matched Quad of something decent.

Ideally I would like a little more mid-range luxury and presence without sacrificing too much bass control. However lower bass is not so much of an issue because my speakers have powered subs with an active crossover (Vaughan Cabernet One).

I'm in the UK, and valve selection here is a bit limited. Nobody seems to have Svetlana Winged Cs anymore, and I've read reports of dubious quality in the later batches. Genelex Gold Lion are easy to get from good dealers who can match and measure, so that is the obvious choice. But would I be better of with some Chinese valves such as the Shuguang KT88-98? Are they going to be a bit warmer in sound to the Genelex?

I've read great reports about the Psvane KT88 T2 but they are very expensive. Also the Shuguang Treasures. The riskiest option is to buy these from Mable Audio in China, who have them up for a good price:

http://www.mableaudio.com/en/

From what I have read Kevin Hayes supplied the Auricles with the Shuguang KT88-98. These are very affordable, but I suspect that Kevin only supplies selected ones. 

I could also buy from the US, and I'd appreciate any recommendations for the best source.


andreweast
I don't have your amp, but IMHO you are better off with the Gold Lions than the base Shuguang tubes, and the Black Treasures are far better than the base Shuguang. To my ears teh Black Treasures are worth the money., and in my experience found them to have more body than the Gold Lions, but that just may be my ears and my amp (Ayon Spirit 2). 
You are in UK and saying that there are any good KT88 tubes? How about UK made NOS GEC KT88? If you like to buy best out there, dont look further. I have tried those Chinese made, so called great, tubes and nothing come close. I dont have your amp either and sold my KT88 a while back, but I would save some cash and forget the rest, but thats me.
I should have said 'for reasonable money'. The prices for NOS GEC KT88 are absolutely crazy now, if you can find them! So they're out of the question.

Black Treasures are appealing, but some things I've read suggest that the Psvane KT88 T2 will be more tight and controlled than the BT as well as having more body than the Gold Lions. However I can only think of one internet post that has compared them in detail so there's not much to go on.

Yes, these are not cheap, agree, but if you look, you may find them for a good price, check vintage radio shops in UK and you may be surprised, or, here is the link for the seller I bought some tubes in the past, ask for the price, if you like