Well what a differance 48hrs makes, have had my CDP playing continuous to burn these babies in and thought now was a good time to have a proper listen. Seeing that Bob was already in the tray I set my normal CDP output to 35 and pressed the play button..... Straight away i was pleased to hear some added detail, I say added maybe I should say 'Clearer' as the stock tubes were never lacking in that department, the Bass had gained a lot more depth although still not as deep as the stockies...... Vocals have been moved forwards a little and very precise...... In fact I started to enjoy the sound. Then i put on Jeff Buckley and although the sound was very detailed from Bass - Mids and Highs i felt something was missing..... so time for an A-B test, It was only at this point I worked out the problem and for my ears the most important..... EMOTION, for all that extra detail the new tubes gave me they lacked emotion, in comparison to the stock tubes the newbies sounded sterile/clinical.
The stockies are back where they belong and the newbies will be going on flea-bay, if you dont mind me repeting some of your words..... Its ok to try and improve things and in the short term you might think you have succeaded, but before you make your mind up.... listen to what you had and liked before you make your decision....short term gain may not be long term enjoyment.