2. amps-preamps
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Is there an average life span for a preamp?

I have a 6 year old Adcom GFP-750 preamp that has been used for about 12,000 hours already. Is there a certain point in hours or years when I can expect something to fail? This particular preamp has a passive option which I like and use currently. When used pasively I would thing that it should last forever.Please let me know what experiences you have had. Thanks.

Joe
jjarocki
soulbrass
246 posts
 
I have a Naim pre-amp in my system from 1985 - it rocks! An older pre may require some maintenance or service to perform optimally, but usually not a big deal.
kijanki's avatar
kijanki
4,412 posts
 
Joe - 12000hrs is nothing. The only perishable things inside (other than mechanical switches) are electrolytic caps. Their life is in order of 50years in room temperature. Every 10deg C temp. increase cuts their life by 2 (they dry-out). Since preamps tend to run cold I wouldn't worry for at least next 20 years.
nolitan
865 posts
 
Pre-amps are one of the most trouble free or reliable components of a system.
I've have some friends who has 20 year old pre-amps; while some needed re-capping, others works just fine with just regular tube changes.
Amps on the other hand is another matter due to heat & other variables.
jjarocki OP
1 posts
 
My impression is that it should last a long time. It seems that you all feel the same way and that is good to hear. This particular component is class A and it does run warm when it is on. Does anyone feel that this makes any difference?
kijanki's avatar
kijanki
4,412 posts
 
AFAIK every preamp is class A. Saving power (class AB) is unimportant in preamps.
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