Tube life


Hey guys/gals, happy Labor Day weekend! Newbie here.  I recently purchased my first piece of tube gear (the McIntosh hybrid integrated). I’m loving it, even with my power hungry Maggies. Anyway, will I notice a marked degradation in sound as the tubes age? Or is it a gradual glide path to less-than-Nirvana  sound? Thanks for your comments! Any suggestions on tubes other than stock? 
jrod68

Showing 1 response by mickeyb

Since that’s a hybrid amp, I don’t feel you’ll notice the signal tubes degrade as much. 
If it was a complete tube amp, with power tubes, you’d notice a big difference when they degrade. 
I have an old sansui tube amp. When those 7591 power tubes start to go, you really notice. When you replace them it’s like you have a brand new amp. I’d tube roll your signal tubes because their is quite a difference in the sonic signature of those tubes. It’s also a lot of fun. Glad you’re enjoying your new setup.