How do you know when to replace tubes


I recently purchased the Audio research Anniversary reference
The unit has 2600 hours on the tubes.The manual states replace the power supply tubes after 2000 hours.Do you indeed have to replace the tubes even if the sound is good.Another question is tube rolling enhance the sound .As an aside the Audio Research replaced the Einstein Tube pre amp noticeable improvement to the sound ,mainly the lower mid range and bass.
ramy

Showing 1 response by lostbears

I would replace the two 6550 in the power supply after 2000 or 2500 hours. It is cheap insurance against the possible damage a blown power tube could do. The 6h30 tubes are not going to do any damage if one fails.

I also have a complete set of backup tubes for all my tube equipment. That way I always have a spare in case of failure.

BTW I own an Audio Research Ref CD7, Ref 110, LS27 and PH8