Tube Depot is selling Western Electric "B Stock" 300b tubes at $199 each with no warranty.

“B-Stock” Western Electric 300Bs are functional but do not meet quality standards" as stated on Tube Depots description.

I find it odd that such a prestigious company would want to fill the streets with compromised tubes even if only directed at hobbyist. It's also a rather curious peak into the possible QC issues they are having. I hope its not a sneak peak into then possibly of them ending this run of tube. Pure speculation of course but why would you want less than perfect quality tubes in the hands of public when everyone has such high expectations of this long coveted product.

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I also saw this, but it isn't anything new. Back during the golden age of tube technology RCA, Sylvania etc. would sell their B stock to so called relabelers who then resell them under different brands. Tandy (aka Radio Shack) was an example and somewhat infamous as I recall for sketchy tube quality among my guitar playing friends back in the day. They were cheap, but you got what you paid for.

The only difference is WE is selling the tubes under their own brand.

Yes, Realistic tubes not Tandy. Got some wires crossed in the brain. I have a Realistic GZ34 that clearly comes from the Mullard Japan factory. It is OK.