I’m looking at 12AU7 tubes for that reason. I need to call Brent Jesse. I can actually drive to his store, so I wonder if there’s any benefit to going there in person.
I did a lot of research into custom made cables, looking for people who had a reputation for both quality and value for money, and were also willing and able to add the right angle connector. I like dealing with one-man boutique firms, so Cardas didn’t make my list, but if you’re interested in Cardas, @ToddR can get you a deal.
I ended up with 2 companies, both run by great individuals who patiently answered my questions, and also didn’t try to upsell me on unobtanium-plated blah blah blah. In fact both of them recommended products below my budget.
Douglas Connection for my interconnects. Doug has a ton of different cables and connectors, so once you give him your budget, he will tell you what he can do. He can also sell you the components if you want to make the cables yourself. For mine, he used OCC Furutech wire, with a Furutech connector on one end and Cardas right angle connector on the other. I have some pictures here. I just ordered some more (not right angle) cables today from Doug.
Cullen Cable for my power cable. Patrick Cullen was also great to work with, very down to earth. Pictures here.
Obviously this is only an option for you if you decide to keep the Pendant.