Vacuum tube suppliers

I have had good success buying vintage USA and European tubes from private sellers on EBAY.

While I'm sure the recommendations here are all fine, I can't say enough good things about Andy at Vintage Tube Services.  If you are going for vintage tubes, he is meticulous about testing them and a fountain of knowledge when it comes to getting you the sound you're looking for from your particular equipment.  I have used him for many, many years and have always been happy in my dealings with him.

Very helpful discussion. I am new to tubes considering a tube pre. 

So true rcprince,

I failed to mention in my initial post how talking to Andy has led me to tube options I didn't know existed yet worked better in the application I was using them in than what I called to order. His testing and cleaning of his tubes are second to none but it's his vast knowledge not just about how tubes work in circuitry but how they will sonically perform that I find most valuable. 

Anecdotally, Andy at Vintage Tube Services seems to have a very loyal following and I have no reason to doubt the faith people have in his expertise.  So far, the good news is, there are several fine options for sourcing tubes.  In addition to Cryoset, I am using a very fine pair of 5687 Tung Sols from Tube Depot at the moment and have purchased once from "Old Radiola Guy" on ebay.

For anyone considering a move to tube gear, this should be very encouraging and I would encourage you to make the leap.  Tons of great tube gear in the marketplace!