6922 recommendations for ARC PH7

barnettk, I think you meant 0.4 and 0.5 mV.  With 57dB you would need to install transformers for tubes 0.2 mv or less. ARC can be strange that way. 57 dB is too much gain for most high output cartridges but not enough for all MC cartridges. My PH3 SE has 54 dB. It is quiet enough for a cartridge with 0.5 mV output but it really sings with high output cartridges in the 3 mV region. I have a Soundsmith "Voice" ready to go as soon as Sota gets to building my turntable. I do have Sowter transformers installed inside the PH3 for low impedance MC cartridges but right now I'm into high output cartridges which IMHO are a much better value and in some ways better than MC cartridges. You could also install transformers in the PH7. In the future I intend on getting a current mode phono stage and a very low impedance MC cartridge. My understanding is that this combination results in a very dynamic sound challenging the high output cartridges in that regard. 
Where are you getting the Phillips from. Are they tested and graded?
I generally only use RAM Labs and Upscale Audio because they test and grade all their tubes which I find very reassuring. I have always purchased the highest grades and have always gotten wonderful tubes.
Very important for phono stages!  

Ya, I spent thirty great years at Boeing... we did have an affinity for HP and Tektronix... had our own Cray and cert / calibration labs.., etc
do some research on RAM tube testing/matching... for grading current production I doubt anyone affordable does better...
maybe Andy at Vintage Tube... but he “ hates “
Russian tubes...

I really enjoy the civility and expertise in this thread of music lovers :-))))) my best to all

Hint, hint...

https://www.ebay.com/itm/224392672944?hash=item343ed876b0:g:gOYAAOSwKXhcVBWO

This dialog could be superimposed on a discussion of fine wines, just by changing a few words.  I think the effects of tube rolling are way overblown, although "real" in the eye of the beholder.  In my opinion, a few judicious changes to a circuit or an upgrade in coupling capacitors, can make a far greater difference.

@ mijostyn4 

" I think you meant 0.4 and 0.5 mV."

Yes you would be correct that is exactly what I meant. I actually thought about that last night as i lay in bed and meant to put out a correction. I realize that people read these forums for accurate info and I did intend to correct that statement but you beat me to it. 

" Where are you getting the Phillips from. Are they tested and graded?"

I by all my tube from upscale audio, and yes they are tested and matched. they provide the T rating on each tube. 

These shipped yesterday. I think I am also going to give the siemens a try for comparison as well. 

Thanks