Yes, that's a risk, but often you can catch red-plating tube before it's damaged. At least then you know not to keep trying new tubes until you can get the amp serviced.
KT88 Tubes
I am new to tube amps having acquired a Harmon Kardon Citation II about a year ago. A little while ago I started experiencing one of the channels dropping out and an occasional loud pop. Today I noticed one of the KT88 tubes glowing purple where the rest glow orange so I have assumed that the tube has gone bad. As I bought this amp used, I have no idea of the age of the tubes. So I have a couple of questions. First, should I replace just the two tubes on the bad channel with a matched pair, or should I replace all 4 tubes with all 4 being matched. Second, any recommendations for good quality KT88 tubes? Any other thoughts or ideas would be appreciated.
- ...
- 22 posts total
@russbargmann unless your tubes ran more than 5000+ hours, you may swap L <=> R ones, and bias / balance accordingly to service (schematics) recommendation. |
@dogearedaudio Thanks! Dog on couch here enjoying some Dead. |
I am a KT88 fan over EL34 or KT120. I’ve tried 3 new production brands in my PrimaLuna EVO 400 integrated and Rogue Cronus Magnum. Can’t afford NOS. I like the Gold Lions best but they can be bright depending on what preamp tubes are used. The others were JJ Blue Glass and Psvane which were also acceptable there are subtle differences in the brand sounds. So I have 3 matched quads sitting around |
- 22 posts total