Leaving my amplifier on ok?


Would it be ok to leave my amplifier on all the time if I want to extend the reliability of the amp? Many amplifiers ar Class A, high current bias and tubes might be a problem if energy consumption is a factor. Not to mention Excessive heat from bias operation. Is it possible to extend the life of the amp with leaving it on all the time?

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Showing 3 responses by minorl

First, yes, there are many older posts that discuss this topic at length.  However, the OP asked a question and is requesting help, not a scolding for not reviewing prior posts.

If you don't want to help, then don't answer. 

Second, most new components have soft start circuitry that dramatically reduce the inrush and damage to components.  So this shouldn't be an issue with newer components.

I have yet to hear any high end system that didn't sound great after about 45 minutes of warm up.

There are so many golden ears out there.  But really, your system sounds like crap even after an hour of warm up?  really?

If you aren't concerned about tube life, then leave them on 24/7.  Just remember, sometimes with heat and leaving on, when they go, they really go spectacularly, and may take your home with it.

I never leave my system components on.  When I want to listen, I turn it on, do some other things, and then after a warm up period settle down and enjoy.

Most manufacturers won't recommend leaving they devices on 24/7.  Some low powered stuff may be okay.

I have some pretty decent tube gear and power tubes typically last 2000 hours and are really expensive.

I've had an amp or two launch a tube or two with resistors and other circuitry.  Not fun and thankfully I was home.

I have a Krell KBS balanced crossover made specifically for my Martin Logan Monolith III speakers that is always on, no power switch.  Which I believe is really stupid.  Some components went up in flames.  So, subsequently, after repairing it, I unplug that sucker most times until it is needed.

But, it is up to you.  Listen after an hour or so warm up.  Then listen after 24 hours of it being left on.  Hear any difference?  Of course you have to go by memory on this one.

There you go.

enjoy

@soix, Thanks for the information.  I don't believe that it is a constant temp flux, because one isn't turning on an off like a 3 year old.  It is turned on and let warm up.  Hence the word warm up.

however, I appreciate your input and will look at your other post/responses.

any good information can't hurt.

 

enjoy