Quote:
Originally Posted by sleeper
The Tube Store sells complete tube sets for the Ref 5SE for a package price. I have purchased tubes from them for several years with total satisfaction. There are three option levels of quality for the Ref 5SE, ranging from about USD199 for a basic tube set to USD1547 for their "Ultimate" set containing DR Reflector 6H30s. The middle grade is probably the best choice, at USD237. You can look over their offerings at: https://www.thetubestore.com/shop-by...e-stage-preamp There is an uncharge for matching.
Another well regarded tube vendor for ARC products is UpScale Audio, at https://upscaleaudio.com/collections/vacuum-tubes Call or email Kevin Deal for package pricing. He also offers different quality options.
Of course, you can't go wrong to buy from ARC, but you will pay a bit more than either of the middle options from The Tube Store or UpScale |
IMO, the replacement tubes sourced from Audio Research are probably the gold standard in that they extensively test and match their tubes to work with specific models. However, you may end up paying more than 2x the price other vendors are charging for the same tube. Pick your poison.