Tube Question


I have an amp that has Russian Tubes. This amp purchased in the 90's has always had a hum to it which when playing music isn't heard. I'm thinking of buying 1 6SL7 and 1 6550EH tube to swap out and see if I can find if one of the tubes is the problem. The 6SL7 is Sovtek and the 6550EH is electro-harmonix. Should I replace with a similar tube from another company or continue with the same company? Is this approach to finding the problem sensible or a waste of time?
jcbach
First, please clarify whether you are talking about a mechanical hum coming from the unit itself or a hum that is audible on your speakers.  If it's a mechanical hum, I agree with the above two responders.  You could try tightening down on screws that hold the transformer laminations together, if the transformer is not potted. Or you could isolate the transformer from the chassis on rubber grommets.  Neither is guaranteed to work but might work.

If it's a hum on the audio signal, then the issue is mostly likely due to equipment grounding, not a tube, although it's also possible you have a dirty tube socket.  All that said, if you've never changed the tubes since the 90s, it's probably a good idea to do that too.
 I would definitely replace those tubes even if it is not the source of your hum. You will greatly improve your enjoyment going with different brands. Both of those brands you mention make very poor sounding tubes in my humble opinion.  Call Andy at Vintage Tubes services as he will be able to recommend the brands for the sound quality traits you desire. 
Thank you for all your responses. Dealing with the transformers is beyond my pay grade. Does anyone have a suggestion on where I should send the amp for professional repair?  I live in the northeast US  but would be willing to ship it anywhere.The company that made the amp no longer exists so that isn't an option. 
I guess you've chosen not to respond to my question about the source of the hum. If you don't know what's broken it will be difficult for a repair shop to fix it. If the problem is due to AC grounding in your system it may not exist when the unit is in a repair shop, for example.
Anyway: Bill Thalmann at Music Technology in Springfield VA is the best on this side of the Mississippi 

Weve established that if the tubes have never been replaced now is the time.

Tubes can 100% absolutely positively hum! I used to use Sovtek tubes and they were horrid, many hummed like crazy. New Electro Harmonix are much better. NOS US made are best and quietest. I definitely recommend getting new tubes to try.