I may get the EML 5U4G at some point, but right now I hate to spend $280 just because my brand new $180 Sophia 274B is humming. I'm very interested in the EML, but I'd prefer to get used to what I have first. I've found that I appreciate the tube upgrades less when I swap them out too soon.
Yep that's understandable.
Tubes are hit and miss with me. I've got 2 sets of drivers that hum (ecc35 and sylvania 6sn7) and a brand new Psvane we274 replica.. But the hum is pretty loud with these bad eggs and they're in the no-listen pile. Not sure if hum disappears with use as I've read tubes need some time to settle in.. Good luck!