I do agree with your suspicions, BUT I am a big fan of First saving up and paying CASH. Especially in our current economy. Secondly It should be a time to study the facts and what is worthy or MIGHT be worthy in a replacement tube. Not all tubes are made equal. You know exactly what you currently had so don't be in a rush. Save a little longer find out just a little bit more and definitely ASK MORE QUESTIONS about what you might replace those tubes with. Possibly even find someone that offers a satisfaction guarantee.
Audio Research - should I replace the valves?
I have a AR Ref 110 power amp and AR Ref 3 preamp. Both have done about 3,800 hours. They both work but I wonder if should be replacing the valves.
How can you tell if they’ve had it? Does the sound quality deteriorate & what happens if you don’t replace them?
i don’t think they sounds as good as they did but no pops or whistles or any other strange noises etc - just a bit flat sounding. But perhaps this is just my ears?
pp
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Could be that the bias has gotten way low & just biasing them will make a big improvement? Regardless, if/when you do put in new tubes, you will DEFINITELY need to check & set the bias before using. Whenever I replace output tubes I always back the bias off all the way before turning the amp on and then I go from there. |
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@rickisme , I just did a cursory search & I am picking up that the newer 275s are self biasing. Other wise, occasional checking & adjusting the bias of output tubes is a MUST. Especially after installing a new set. Your owners manual should clarify that for you. |
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