A question I suspect reveals a lot of ignorance...


Does the volume at which I listen affect the rate at which my tubes "age"? I'm thinking more volume requires more voltage and higher output voltage levels represent "wear" on the power tubes. Thanks in advance for your tolerance.
128x128ghosthouse

Showing 1 response by beavis

I've heard whenever a tube is on the clock is ticking. That's why I've heard that if you know you're not going to be listening for the next couple of days to power down tubes. I take it one step further with the modern tube gear I own & power down tubed equipment after each usage & allow to warm up for one-half to one hour before listening. I have not noticed excessive tube wear.

But I must be honest, I don't know if listening volumes affects tube life. I suspect it doesn't, practically speaking. I usually listen at 85dB.