2. amps-preamps
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Tube reliability in amps

I am contemplating the purchase of a tube power amp. I already have an Audible Illusions pre-amp, which has given me virtually no problems tube wise. I would like to hear from a bunch of Audiogoners on how long power amp tubes last in the real world, do I have to keep matched pairs or sets around or can I just replace one? Also I have B&W matrix 804's and I have been told tube amps are not a match for them or that I need a lot of power (read expensive tube amp). Wavering between tube and SS, HELP.

PS. I listen to orchestral music and piano. Sometimes loud like about 90 db.

Thanks
drjjpdc

Showing 2 responses by drjjpdc

drjjpdc OP
80 posts
 
hey newbie, instead of me calling up a whole lot of manufactuers, can you give me an idea of what is a lot or little bias on a tube, so I can hone in on the guys with longer life tube designs?
drjjpdc OP
80 posts
 
to blues man and the few last posters, I am not an audio novice. It's just that I am a tube novice. I know listening is top priority. It's just that I am not a tweaker. I don't want a lot of down time due to finicky tubes, long warm-ups etc. My listening time is limited as it is. To use an analogy from the the world of cars and bikes, I never understood all the tweaking that the early Harleys or British bikes and cars required. Seemed their owners spent more time fiddling with them than actually driving them. Have the same fear with tube power amps.
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