Does this conversation really need to diverge toward the negative? Youd think this was Audio Asylum or something. I frequent these boards because theyre usually (significantly) more civil. It doesnt seem like were furthering much useful conversation on the original posters topic, just arguing about semantic minutia.
Regarding MBTF (or MTTF) of systems, caps, half life, etc, I want to clear something up. For the exponential failure rate distribution, which most electronics follow during the majority of their lifetime, MTBF is when 63.2% of the population has failed, not 50%. When the product / part begins to wear out (failures begin to occur at an increasing rate), the normal distribution is typically used, and MTBF is indeed when 50% of the population has failed.
And getting back to the original question, I agree that good SS amplifiers can last 20+ years. Electrolytics are frequently the limiting factor, followed by the semiconductors (transistors, diodes). Much of this depends on how much margin the designers used (how much the parts are derated for relevant electrical and thermal parameters). Personally, I wouldnt worry about any maintenance unless recommended by the manufacturer. Bringing up an amplifier slowly with a Variac after it has been out of service for 6+ months isnt a bad idea.
Regarding MBTF (or MTTF) of systems, caps, half life, etc, I want to clear something up. For the exponential failure rate distribution, which most electronics follow during the majority of their lifetime, MTBF is when 63.2% of the population has failed, not 50%. When the product / part begins to wear out (failures begin to occur at an increasing rate), the normal distribution is typically used, and MTBF is indeed when 50% of the population has failed.
And getting back to the original question, I agree that good SS amplifiers can last 20+ years. Electrolytics are frequently the limiting factor, followed by the semiconductors (transistors, diodes). Much of this depends on how much margin the designers used (how much the parts are derated for relevant electrical and thermal parameters). Personally, I wouldnt worry about any maintenance unless recommended by the manufacturer. Bringing up an amplifier slowly with a Variac after it has been out of service for 6+ months isnt a bad idea.