2. amps-preamps
  3. 1232295246

When to change your amplifiers tubes?

I've had the same tubes in my amplifier (Audio Research VT100 MkII) for at least three (maybe four) years now (I'm guessing that I average about 7 - 10 hours a week listening time). The amp sounds good to me, but I'm wondering if it's just because I've become use to the sound. It's going to cost me anywhere from $750 to $1,000 to retube my amp, so I don't want to retube it unless it is time to. So here are my questions:
What audible signs do you hear that indicate it is time to retube?
Should I consider retubing just the power tubes, and wait to retube the input tubes?
Any thoughts you'd like to share with me will be greatly appreciated!
louisl

Showing 1 response by lwerner

lwerner
58 posts
 
Is the $700-$1,000 for 1 amp or a pair? Either way it`s way too much.
Try Parts Connextion in Toronto, I used them for the past 10yrs or more, $450, for all tubes for a pair of Audio Reaserch Classic 120`s, 6550c`s Sovtek`s, matched pairs or Quads and drivers,

Never a problem or a dud.
More to discover