First Tube Amp: Advice? Keep spare tubes on hand?


I'll be receiving my first tube amp in a few days.
Please let me know the basics I NEED to know. I really want to know if I should keep a spare set of tubes on hand.
I have read the primers I could find on line.
I thank all of you excellent Audiogon'r's for your excellent advice and information in advance.

Richard
rhanechak

Showing 2 responses by rleff

You have been given great advice mine is don't be afraid of the multimeter(DVM);very easy to use and a very needed tool for manual bias;also checking blown fuses that look good but don't ohm out as a short and read open.
I don't know how your amp is setup to bias; it maybe a tube at a time or pairs or quads; I would talk to the manufacturer and tell them what you are measuring;then go from there.
If this were my amp I would move tubes from left to right channels to see if the measurements move or change;also inspect the pins on the tubes for oxidation;could be some buildup that needs cleaning as well as the tube sockets themselves.