Hey Jim,Whatdya think about picking up a good used tube tester? If you get a good one, it can be used to verify the condition of tubes. That can help you know whether a used tube is worth the money or not. Of course, you have to find a place that is willing to let you test 'em, but at least you'd know what you have in your hands. I'd say the biggest part of buying tubes is the risk. It's pretty easy to say a tube is NOS, or whatever, but the proof is in the pudding.
Wayne