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Powering up a SET amp after 6 months in storage

What precautions do I have to use in turning on my SET amp after it has been sitting unused for a number of months? I have heard the phrase "bring the amp back up slowly" in connection with tube amps and preamps, but I don't know exactly what that means, and if a tech guy has to do this for me. FYI, the amp has a mute switch in the back if that is any help. Thanks.
glrtrgi
narrod
1,064 posts
 
Don't worry about it. Six months is nothing. Turn it on and enjoy.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
The issue with gear that has been sitting for long periods is generally a breakdown of the dielectric charge on the capacitors. To reform them, as pmotz suggests, a variac is used. Although initial power should actually be hundreths or even milliwatts and this power should be applied for at least 24 hours, increasing it slowly, over a period of days, to full power. But six months is just not a very long time though and there should be no issue whatsoever with just flipping the switch and enjoying the amp.
elizabeth
6,726 posts
 
Agree 6 months is not a problem. Six YEARS... however, might be.
One way to do a poor imitation of proper care for a long term storage is to turn it on for only a moment. Less than a second. Some juice flows... but not enough to break anything. Then on again for two seconds after about five minutes. Then you are ready to go.
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