Jim,
I'd say yes...it's probably nothing more than an aesthetic issue with me (the tubes). The sound is certainly outstanding. I have since replaced the tubes with NOS GE...same exactly as what I had. When the tubes arrived today...the box is exactly the same as what Bottlehead sent me! So, the originals are now backup to the ones I've just gotten. (nice how that worked out
) The new tubes are pristine...not a flaw can be seen in the printing (no smearing or anything else)...and no visible Mica buildup of any kind (to my eye). And no top bridge! The tubes are matched and for all intensive purposes identical. (they're pretty) Either way...I was surprised to see they were constructed the same (to my eye) (plate, general semetry etc...). I have to say the sonic values appear to be the same as well. At least I'm not wiggin out at them
Im well pleased AND that's all that matters. Guess I'm much more vain than I'd ever admit. Not something I like admitting really.
A few more hours on the SEX...I've been doing my best to A/B it with the crack. They are different animals...period. I can say that so far...the SEX is, in my perception, more detailed (separated) and dynamic. I'm hearing stronger bass...more instrument separation...stuff like that. I am having a hard time describing it...but, somehow...I get "more" out of the SEX. Nothing is "broke in" yet...just first impressions here. Dont' get me wrong...my CRACK is never leaving my side...however, she's gonna have a hard time seeing time with my SEX in the same room. (again...initial impressions. DAY 2 today)
*edit* deleted some drunken banter...pfft.