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Amplifier Orientation?

I've got a pair of ARC VT100 MkIIIs and some space issues. One thing I thought about was welding up a rack to hold them vertically, and stashing them behind my front end equipment, which is sitting on a couple Solidsteel racks. Its not like there is any reason to actually see them... I can't intuitively believe there would be an issue with operating an amp in a different orientation--it might even improve airflow around the amp. Just thought I'd see if anyone had any wisdom on this grand plan before I embark on this scheme...
edesilva

Showing 2 responses by sean

sean
6,231 posts
 
Power tubes should NEVER be run horizontally unless the amp / tubes were designed to do so. Not only does this create hot spots on the tube due to uneven cooling, the plates can sag over time and short out. Some tube manufacturers in the old days actually had slightly different manufacturing methods for vertical and horizontal oriented tubes.

Line level tubes are typically not a problem to turn sideways. Due to their lower plate voltages, current consumption and heat generated, one typically need not bother worrying about that.

I have no idea which, if any, orientation would be lower in microphonics. Sean
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sean
6,231 posts
 
i was completely unaware that this amp ( or ANY for that matter ) ran the outputs horizontally. Hopefully, they've done their homework and this will not turn into a problem in the long run. Sean
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