Okay, I received delivery of a new Rachael.  I got it without tubes because I've got a few.  I loaded it with matched EL34-WC, matched 6N1p, and an Art 274b.  

So, far, it has been on for about 12-15 hours or so.

And, so far, I'm not thrilled.

To be frank, it sounds like my Van Alstine.  Seriously.  Don't get me wrong.  I like the Van Alstine.  I just don't want another amp with the same sound.

Am I a judging it too early.  Do, I need 100 hours before I can see what is going on?

The amp has a switch to go between 4 and 8 ohm.  I'm not sure which is which but I know in one direction it is extremely bright and it hurts the ears.  In the other position is sounds alot better, warmer.

Anyway, any advice?  Is there a better tube compliment I should use?

Definitely give it some time 50 to 100 hours. Even after 20 to 30 hours it should start to sound different.

Match - In my experience with our Rachael, I didn't really get much of a feeling until it had about 50 hours on it, and then it was more positive than not. Just play a boat load of music and don't worry until you are past the 100 hour mark. Keep us posted, and happy listening, Chris.

I'm at about 50 hours or so.
I changed the 6N1P tubes to 6922 which I think helped with the bright end.  I also changed the EL34s to JJ E34Ls.

The bright end seems to have subsided which is a turn for the better at this point.  I was in the listening room, folding laundry, and I found myself dancing to the music which to me is a good sign.

Ok, get this.
I'm still not there with what I expect from the amp.  My neighbor dropped in and I had him listen to the setup.  I put on a Robin Trower CD, Another Days Blues, and my neighbor fell of his seat.  He said, damn, that sounds amazing.  Which makes me think I've become jaded to the sound of a Decware amp.  Is that possible?  Do I expect too much?

So, Rachael is over 60 hours and heading towards 70.

This morning I turned it on and I had to turn down the volume.  It just dawned on me that it was now too, too loud.  Hmmm, that's a good sign, right?

I'm way over 100 hours.
Yesterday, I was in the room with Rachael and I popped in The Police, Synchronicity.  And, boom, it was big and wide.  I didn't notice that before.  So, I popped in some of my other CDs.  Great sound.  The loudspeakers finally disappeared.  You couldn't tell where the sound came from.  Alas, I think I've arrived.

The 8 ohm switch had a very trebly effect for a long time but it has dissipated.  

Finally.

I still believe there are issues with the room but even so, the sound has arrived.  I'm so relieved.

Patience is a virtue and I have none.

Decware amps are always supriseing  from new one day  you'll turn the amp on and whammo the amp will sound excellent!!!!!!!