2. amps-preamps
  3. 1304873730

stupid tube question of the day

Hi all.

Do tubes get consumed at the same rate when the system is on but not playing music, or does playing music cause faster consumption of the tube.

My guess is that for tube amps, definitely faster when playing music. But what about CD players with tubes in them or preamps?

Thanks.

--dan
dgaylin

Showing 2 responses by samhar

samhar
1,048 posts
 
G_m_c

Why is that?
samhar
1,048 posts
 
G_m_c

I've heard turning tube equipment on shortens the life of tubes but I hadn't heard anything about a four hour run time. In my amps and preamp the 9 pin tubes are always on to some degree (heater mode) and they and the power tubes in the amps are powered up and down by variacs to reduce shock to the tubes and extend their life.

Your tubes are very expensive I understand your position and was only wondering what the thinking was behind that specific amount of time.
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