I have read through your post (twice!). That's where most of the ideas came from. I am set on the chokes, was thinking the 159M, I don't know what difference the 157M vs 159M would really make. I was planning on putting the chokes on top of the chassis so heat shouldn't be a problem. I can't get any of the photos to load from the forum on multiple different computers to see where xcortes put them.
The attenuator will have to be on hold as funds are approaching depleted for audio gear. But I will keep your recommendation in mind. Funny, after Paul mentioned the 6S4 I went down and checked my stash for EL84 and found a quad of GE oval plates, a quad of Tesla, a quad of Tungsram, and a handful of Soviet 6n14n. Given what everyone says, I will just stick with the stock tubes coming with the amp and then use the Russians like you are doing. No point wasting the NOS.