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How can you tell when you need to replace tubes?

Can I tell by listening if I need to replace power tubes on my amp?

Should I have the tubes tested regularly?
As a matter of fact should I test all my amp's tubes? I currently own an AES Super Amp MkII with EL34 output tubes and 6SN7 front end tubes.

I have a basic meter. Can I use this to test the tubes, and what values am I looking for?
mjcmt

Showing 1 response by eldartford

eldartford
4,262 posts
 
When I used tube amps this question always bugged me. Being bugged distracts from musical enjoyment. Tubes degrade gradually, so it is not easy to recognize how bad they have gotten.

The best suggestion I have heard is to keep a spare set of new tubes on hand and plug them in from time to time to see if they make a difference.
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