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New to tubes

I just got a Musical Fidelity X-pre preamp, which contains two tubes (KT-88's I think). How do tubes age? Will I hear a deteriation in sound? Or will this go so slow my ears will adapt to it, so I won't notice it? Or will they just quit working when there too old?
Basically: how do I know when it's time to change them?
Thanx in advance.
satch

Showing 3 responses by jax2

jax2
3,031 posts
 
A pre-amp with KT-88's?! Are you sure about that? Those ain't no
preamp tubes my friend!

Usually when preamp tubes get old and weary you'll start to hear some
weird noises coming from your system in the form of pops, cracklin' and
scratchy kinds of sounds...I think they named a breakfast cereal after
failed preamp tubes didn't they? I think most of the small pre-amp
(6922, 12AX7, etc) tubes have a lifespan of between 5,000-10,000
hours depending on the tube and brand. You can also purchase a tube-
tester, or bring them to a friend with a tester, or service joint with one
and have'em tested out.

Marco
jax2
3,031 posts
 
Nah, no stress here. Just a funky connection to the internet or bad browser. I cleaned up the mess before you replied (phew). It was hangin' up on me and I didn't think it posted after five minutes. Yeah, you have ECC88's which are the same as 6922's. Lifespan is rated at around 10,000 hours tops, depending on the pre. You know if that's the only piece of tube gear you own I wouldn't go the bucks for a tester (you can find them for anywhere from around $100-300 on average I'd guess). They are one of the more common and coveted tube-types, and also one of the most counterfitted as they can command a high price on the NOS market. Buy from a reputable seller. At 10,000 hours a pair of tubes is likely to last you 3-5 years of listening say 6-8 hours a day. So if you just make a note to replace them every three years, or when you start hearing the rice crispie dudes inside your rig, you can avoid the cost of a tester. If you want a tester they come up here and on eBay...you may have to get the one you buy calibrated though. I use a BK707 and it serves me well. There are others that do an excellent job, but do make sure they test your tube type(s).

Marco
jax2
3,031 posts
 
Sorry I couldn't chime in again last night Satch. I went to bed with a hangover...not because of your questions though. That may explain all the additional copies of my post! Yes, I'd concur; tube pre with class A SS can be a nice combo when done right. Hang onto your tubes, save your pleasure money for the prostitutes and enjoy the music!

Marco
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