6SN7 driver tubes

In my Modwright Transporter, I have found the Russian 1960's Vintage 6H8C/6SN7 from UpscaleAudio.com work terrifically. Nearly on par with Tung Sol 6SN7GT round plates. In fact, I sold my TS round plates after installing the Russian 6H8C, and I have absolutely no regrets.

I wrote an assay wich went somewhere. The upshot is . IMHO the Sylvanias are my favorites especially the chrome heavy T plates that are directly opposed with 3 rivets.
Brent Jesse of AudioTubes.com can set you up with true NOS tubes for $20 each,or thereabouts anyway. In your price range.
Usually RCA and sometimes later GE niether of which are that great.He may have some OEM Philco or Admiral etc. Sylvania true chrome dome, top getter, T plates,however. They excell in balanced extension and are a great 3D sound staging tubes.
I have heard that the russian tube is a world beater, but only the real deal old stock tubes. I have also heard their noise floor tends to be high. With drivers that usually doesn't matter. The tube you choose though, will alter the sound even in the driver spot.
If you go for the Russian tube be careful who you buy them from. The seller should know what he is doing and know the other choices.
If you send me an email I will give you a long list of what I think the outstanding attributes are,for the various commonly encountered 6SN7s.

09-21-09: Mechans
I have heard that the russian tube is a world beater, but only the real deal old stock tubes. I have also heard their noise floor tends to be high.

What I hear with my own ears when used in the analog output section of the Modwright Transporter, is that the Russian 6H8C are absolutely dead quiet. No noise issue whatsoever. They are the "Platinum" grade tubes from UpscaleAudio. $25/ea. Perhaps they are noisy in a higher gain application, but I suspect *any* tube would be relatively noisier in a higher gain application (e.g. MC phono preamp).

I suggest calling Kevin Deal, and asking him for his recommendation based on your specific amplifier. He may have some other ideas as well.

Tvad, how would describe the sound of the Russian 6H8C?

It's a pretty neutral tube, IMO.

The highs are extended without etch. The bass is balanced and detailed. The Russian tube may have just a slight more midrange bloom than the TS round plates, but not significantly so. I do find the image to be larger with the Russian tubes than with the Tung Sol round plates (which I generally regard as the benchmark 6SN7).