by EWBrown » Wed Oct 10, 2012 9:46 am
If the tube sockets are in good shape, then by al lmeans re-use them. I generally strip old chassis like this all the way down, and then save only the chassis and transformers, and replace absolutely everything else. The riveted-in tube sockets can be a pain to deal with, but the rivets can be easily drilled out, if necessary.
The different input tubes (12AX7, 12AY7, 5751, etc) can, and wil,l affect the amp's overall tonal qualities, just try rolling in different types and discover which one gives you the best sound and tone.
I'll have to take another peek inside my Tweed clone, IIRC, I settled on a NOS 12AY7 which I had on hand.
/ed B
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