For what it's worth, Kite...and knowing you enjoy swapping tubes...don't overlook the JJ 6L6GC and the SED's Winged "C" 6L6GC. Both of these sounded great in my combo.

The JJs were more durable and seemed to really withstand the beating of such a small enclosure. They never rattled.

I preferred the sonic character of the =C= a little more, but they could rattle.

Both sounded better with a warmer bias (around 70% plate dissipation), as most tubes do, IMHO.

Tubes rule!

Enjoy