Need advice ono a Tube preamp

Manley Steelhead is an excellent choice. The phono stage is killer and bested the CAT ultimate IMHO

A cheaper way to check out tube pre amps is the AES AE3. You can find them used on aoccasion. There,s one on the Gon right now for 400. And there are plenty of 6sn7 nos tubes.
I love mine, it's sound, and it's simplicity.

If I buy a tube preamp new then:
1) how long does it take to burn in
2) how often do you need to change tubes
3)will changing the type of tubes affect the sound much/little and if so are there certain tubes that are considered to be better than others?
Sorry for all the questions but I have really no idea about this stuff and am trying to lern before I buy.
Thanks for all the input.

If I buy a tube preamp new

Why new versus used?

then:
1) how long does it take to burn in

That depends on the preamp...and the caps, resistors, etc. But, in general 200-300 hours.

2) how often do you need to change tubes

Depends on the tubes. I am only familiar with 6922 signal tubes. Excellent quality 6922 tubes made in the early to mid 1960s by Amperex or Siemens will last 3000-5000 hours or more. Premium quality 6922 PQ or 7308 tubes by the same companies were designed to last 10,000 hours

3)will changing the type of tubes affect the sound much/little and if so are there certain tubes that are considered to be better than others?

Again, this depends on the tubes. The short answer is yes, changing tubes will affect the sound. I suggest reading Joe's Tube Lore for a comprehensive description of signal tubes and their sonic characteristics. Although this is Joe's opinion, many have found his descriptions to be quite accurate. I have not discovered any other information source to equal Joe's Tube Lore for signal tube guidance.

Have fun. Consider buying a used preamp with an excellent reputation made by a company with first rate customer service.

TAD-150. Read the reviews...