You're right, some of the 6DJ8 prices are crazy, but most of that, I suspect, is due to rarity more than night/day superiority to more reasonably priced options. Someday I will probably succumb and try one of the high priced ones that people rave about just to see if it's all true or not, but I'm here to tell you that you need not spend hundreds to get great-sounding 6DJ8s. I bought a quad of Bugle Boys, used but still very strong-testing and in great shape, for just over $50. Hopefully I will be able to compare them to some other options, both similarly priced and more expensive, but regardless of how they end up comparing, these Bugle Boys are outstanding tubes and only cost about $13 each.
What power tubes do you have coming? I am anxious to hear how they are and also what you think of the Tungsram EZ80s. I believe those are very reasonably priced, no? If they are a nice upgrade, that would be a very good choice for someone who wants to get a little better performance without breaking the bank.
I definitely suggest rolling the tubes as there are some very satisfying improvements to be found, but this exercise has also taught me that these stock tubes (and, I suspect, stock tubes in many other amps) are not nearly as poor as you would think from what some people around here would have you believe. Their performance is very good, and the amp is superb without any tube-rolling. Lucky for us, though, there is still room for improvement.
