You are very welcome @timski . I am glad that my comments helped you out.

I got my Mazdas from Jesse Brent. I suggest that you discuss with him first on the sound you are suggesting. It is very well possible that you might like some other tube than the Mazdas. Based on the recommendations here, I was gravitating towards Amprex Bugle boys. But those would have been just too sweet for my taste. Of course I can only guess. Just for peace of mind, I did purchase the 2 years warranty on the tubes.

@timski ,

Congratulations on the upgrades. System is looking good. And you are spot on, about the Rhumba. Now all you need are NOS Mazda Grey plates in the Rhumba. I was skeptical about NOS before trying these out in my Rhumba. But "transformative" and "mesmerize" are the 2 words that pop in my mind when I added these. Enjoy your music.

@timski ,

You have a very nice system. And you are SO right about the Backert. Now, if you get a chance, get some NOS Mazda Grey plates in that Rhumba. "You will be mesmerized", is all I can say. I too LOVE this preamp.

Congratulations on all the upgrades. Enjoy your music.