For 'meaty' full bodied sound, I would try new production Sovteks, Tungsol, or even the Gold Lions. I am lately prefering reasonably priced new production, after getting a little jaded in regards to NOS tubes that were lauded online, and then finding that NOS RCA, Sylvania JAN tubes to be underwhelming.
Yup, I too went through a downturn when I was disappointed with the RCA Clear Top, RCA Long Black Plate, and some JAN offerings I found all "ho-hum" in a continuous stretch of them, but still they were doing a better job than some, just not top level "wow" material, that is why I don't recommend them in general.
There are specific Sylvania tubes I like, again not top sound, but elevated above most, like the 6201 tubes, even GE 6201's , where I don't usually recommend GE tubes at all, there are some specific models that do stand out.
I actually thought the same as I realized there are too many tubes out there and they all cost $$, I can only audition so many before I am gonna give up, and then I got the Tung-Sol 12AU7 Black Glass pair with 100% Life left, and then found another 2 pair in the same condition, and for a while that was my "find" and joy.
Whatever keeps you going, researching for tubes you might like, and hunting them down, finally finding a worthy pair, it's a fun and not too expensive way to while away the pandemic, at least for me...
Again, I want to emphasize that NOS is not considered "New/Unused" as the name New Old Stock implies. I've gotten to know a number of dealers and a few have told me that NOS is considered "measures NOS", but is a range that includes clearly "Used tubes". And, I also found that tubes starting at 95% life left as measured with a calibrated tube tester, is the point tubes start HISSing while listening with IEMs.
So I now specifically only buy "New" tubes that actually measure at the top of the specific tube measurement chart. There are enough great tubes out there still that you don't have to settle for "used" tubes.
I'd recommend to hang in there, enjoy the new reissues - they are also good tubes - but if you find a pair with potential, get it and give it a try, you might find a gem in amongst the dross.
Update: here is a long time NOS dealer - Brent Jesse, he has a lot of great listings with descriptions to pick up on details for tubes when hunting - I use his listings as a reference from time to time, and he has a lot of detailed entries for tubes not currently in stock I find interesting, but most of the ones I want from his inventory that are in stock are far too expensive for me to spend, so I just look and find inexpensive tubes elsewhere... his inventory does turn over quickly, so checking daily is a good idea if you are looking for specific tubes - try emailing him with questions too, he is a great guy and I enjoyed purchasing from him.
http://www.audiotubes.com/12au7.htm
http://www.audiotubes.com/12at7.htm
