Heeeelp New used BAT Vxi3 - Hisssssssss

The BAT mutes the output for 50 seconds at startup to avoid the problem Elizabeth mentions. The crackling is not normal. I get a slight hiss coming from the tubes but I can only hear it if I put my ear next to the tweeter. It's not volume-dependent, I can't hear it from my listening position and I certainly can't hear it over music.

You mention that the replacement tubes are nearly new. Do you know where the previous owner purchased them?

It sounds like it may only be one tube. You could identify it by swapping one pair of tubes at a time from left to right. When the noise moves, you've found your bad tube. The problem will be to find a matched tube as a replacement. I'd opt for replacing all of the tubes at once. That way you know exactly what you've got and how long they've been used. Everybody has a different idea of "expensive" but I just retubed for less than $250 and my last set from Kevin lasted well over 5 years. - Dick

The previous owner did send me a receipt which showed the testing data and where he got them from. But since I purchased used from him I'm not sure what I should do about contacting the seller of the tubes.

Hi tubes can have issues even though it measures ok. I agree with the poster above, if the issue is in one channel, swap tubes (turn off first!! And maybe let cool down a bit). If the noise moves, it's that tube for sure.

This is also normal for tube lovers-tubes can act funny occasionally, especially after shipping or power off/on...

Sometimes it can be a dirty tube socket (the ringing however hints at a bad tube)

If the problem follows the tube when you move it, I would have to say the tube is bad. Also, in line 3, it sounds like there is a hiss, as well, that is not following the tube. If that’s the case, I would check the settings on the components. You may have to switch between single ended and balanced operation. Make sure that both channels are set to either SE or BAL, and definitely try both settings. Also, you need to make sure that your cables are balanced, as well, and don't just have an XLR connector.

Preamp and Phono tubes, because of the gains involved, should always be tested/certified, "Low Noise", "Preamp", "Platinum Grade", etc. Hiss(tube rush) may result otherwise. The other mentioned noises, during play or warm-up, are not normal and indicate problem tubes. Often one can locate the errant tube easily, by tapping gently with a pencil eraser. there are many tube testers that do not apply full operating voltage to a tube being tested, or only test for transconductance, shorts and gas. Internal circuit problems often will not become apparent, until the tube is actually in use.