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 2 responses by noromance

Wow, those fan solutions are very inexpensive. Imagine if they were sold by Synergistic et al?
The tubes don’t mind the heat too much. The passive components like electrolytic capacitors would prefer it a little cooler. Although if you’ve been doing it for 40 years in that cabinet, with a fan, you’re probably fine. Just don't tell them that if you ever make a warranty claim.