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How do I know if I need new tubes in my amp?
A: These are the most common signs that tubes need replacement:
- Excessive noise (hiss, hum) including squealing or microphonic tubes.
- Loss of high end.
- A muddy bottom end; Sounds like there is too much bass and note clarity is lost.
- Erratic changes in the overall volume.
- The amp doesn’t work!
How often do you replace tubes on amps?
You can expect a conventional amplifier tube to have a service life ranging up to 10,000 hours. Tubes with military specifications are built to last up to 100,000 hours.
How long do amp vacuum tubes last?
Depending on how often you turn on and turn off your gear, but tubes should last about 5,000 to 10,000 hours. For most people, they only need to be replaced every 2-3 years at most. But it’s good to have at least a spare set around just in case one of them decides to die on you.
How can I test my vacuum tubes?
Open or shorted filaments can be detected using a multimeter, and should be done before plugging the tubes in. Set the multimeter to measure resistance and connect the meter’s test leads to the filament pins. (You can consult on-line tube manuals for the pin configuration.
How long do ear tubes last?
Usually, an ear tube stays in the eardrum for four to 18 months and then falls out on its own. Sometimes, a tube doesn’t fall out and needs to be surgically removed. In some cases, the ear tube falls out too soon, and another needs to be put in the eardrum.
Is changing amp tubes safe?
As long as the amp is not turned on, then changing tubes is safe, however the safest way is to turn the power off at the wall and unplug the amp, so that absolutely no power is flowing to the amp. The sideways motion makes it much easier for the pins on the tubes to come out of the sockets.
How long do rectifier tubes last?
Rectifier Tubes are generally at their best 3 – 5+ years.
Do vacuum tubes go bad?
When a vacuum tube develops an air leak (a small crack or bad seal by a pin for example) this getter color will change to pure white. Third, look for a purple glow that is very focused around specific elements inside the tube. Do not confuse this with blue glow that is often cloudy and near the glass.
Do tubes burn out?
Tubes wear out by sheer hours of being turned on, by how hard they’re worked, how hot they get from just the heat in the box, by the number of times they’re turned on and off (thermal shock). Notice that being played at maximum warp into a dummy load (or power brake, or attenuator, etc.)
How do I know when to replace the valve on my amp?
With the amplifier turned on you can use a pencil to lightly tap each valve listening for and pings, zings, or crackles that’ll usually indicate it’s time for a replacement. Swap in a known good valve into that position and repeat the test to confirm.
Do I need a spare valve for my amp?
“If you’re gigging, it’s always a good idea to carry a spare set of valves or at least one of each type that the amplifier requires so you can replace them if necessary. Take some time to learn the valve types that your amplifier uses, their location on the chassis, and how to change them.
How do I know if my screen printing valve needs replacing?
Any discolouration of the screen printing indicates that the valve has been running hot and may need replacing. Gently remove the valve from its socket and give it a little shake. Can you hear a rattle?