2. amps-preamps
  3. 131488-103079

Using contact cleaner in tube sockets

My ARC VT100mkii which I just got, has a crackling from one of the channels. The tubes are new. When I first installed the tubes, it was fine. The following morning, I powered it on, and the crackling started. I swapped tubes with the other side and it was fine for a while. This evening, it started again. Will using contact cleaner damage the sockets? It is quick drying cleaner.
sgonzalez33

Showing 5 responses by sgonzalez33

sgonzalez33 OP
13 posts
 
The problem was still the same channel after swapping tubes. I just now cleaned the sockets with the contact cleaner. The amp is warming up now and as I'm typing this, it's crackling on the same channel. So the cleaner did not work.
sgonzalez33 OP
13 posts
 
I love the sound also! And I just got it Friday, tubes Monday! It was fine at first. This issue started this morning. Or maybe I didn't notice at first due to my excitement. I'd hate to have to return it to the seller.
Mark, was it expensive? I know shipping is not cheap, but the repairs?
sgonzalez33 OP
13 posts
 
Biased the 6550cs myself. Didn't know the 6922s needed biasing as well. I was sent the amp and tubes separately. New tubes at that.
I guess I'll be opening a ticket with AR and shipping it to them. Any idea what this might cost me?
sgonzalez33 OP
13 posts
 
There's no indication they were purchased from ARC and there are no markings. The 6550cs are Svetlanas and the 6922s are Electro-harmonix.
I will have to start with contacting the seller.

sgonzalez33 OP
13 posts
 
Thanks all for the input. I found a shop near me in New Haven CT that deals with ARC. I'm just going to take it in and have them take care of it. It will probable have to go to ARC. Thankfully the seller gave me a partial refund.
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