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Power On Power Off

Hello Audio Community, 

I have an Audio Research power amp and preamp, both tube models.  When it comes to tube gear, I have been told not to leave it on for too long when not playing it, if for nothing else, to keep from wasting tube life.  I am sure there is some debate here, but that is not my question.  I would like to know what the consensus is on turning on and off tube gear.  Someone told me that after I power off the tube amps, I should wait for 15 minutes before I turn them back on to avoid damaging the amps or tubes.  Of course under normal circumstances, this is not an issue, but what about the less than normal circumstances such as A:B testing of a power cable, or other similar moments?  Should I always wait before switching a warm, but powered off amp back on?  Is the reverse also an issue?  Can I turn off a tube amp too quickly after turning it on?
marktomaras

Showing 2 responses by don_c55

don_c55
1,025 posts
 
Stupid Post IMO!

Turn on the tube equipment 15 minutes before listening to warm up.

Shut off after you are done listening.

Do not turn off, and then quickly turn back on, tube equipment.

Do you only listen for less than an hour at a time?

A:B testing requires the equipment to be "FULLY WARMED UP" for accurate results.

Short time A:B testing is worthless, and will tell you nothing.

It takes more listening time to fully evaluate, the complexity, of sound quality.

don_c55
1,025 posts
 
Sorry for being snarky.

I would guess that someone who owns expensive ARC equipment knows better.

I did not know you are a novice.
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