Time to change powertubes?

[tomprs]

I have a 2003 dual rec with Sovtek 5881 in the power section. Recently I started to feel a lack of punch and a slight loss of headroom in my sound, the amp just sounds thinner than before. I have a few questions on the matter:

> tubes were changed in March 2012. Is it normal I feel they should already be replaced?

> First set of tubes in the amp were Mesa STR430. I wanted to tame the highs and I went for Sovtek 5881. It was definitely an improvement over the first ones but they lack a bit of punch/power. I'm looking for an articulate and clear but in your face sound. Do you guys have any recommendation to make?

Thanks!

Tom.

 

[screamingdaisy]

I usually bank on 1 to 1.5 years out of my power tubes.

I like the stock Mesa 6L6s.

If you want to tame the top end roll down the tone on your guitar or run a longer guitar cable to bleed off some top end. Doing it this way takes the edge off closer to the source whilst allowing the amp it's full harmonic range.