Best temperature for optimum tube performance


Is there an optimum temperature range in which tubes perform best?
I've been running tube amps/preamps for over 40 years and have always placed a small, quiet fan in front of them to prevent excessive heat build-up (a modified, two-door antique silver cabinet is where they reside).
I'm aware that electrical resistance increases in proportion to increasing temperature, but am I somehow decreasing the optimum performance of my tube components with this strategy?
128x128rettrussell

Showing 1 response by barts

My three ARC amps (NOT TUBES) each have 32 output transistors and 3 cooling fans each.  So, 96 output transistors and nine cooling fans.  If I run them really hard for say an hour their temp never goes over 100 F.  Yes, I measure them with a BBQ probe remotely.

Although this does not speak to tubes directly, I would say that if the interior of your cabinet is close to the ambient temperature of the room
you are good to go.

A remote thermometer is very cheap and worth it if you are asking the question.  Start out cold and log the temps against time as well as noting room temp.

Let the snarking begin!

Regards,
barts