2. amps-preamps
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Rectifier tube keeps blowing

I have a cheap Chinese tube amp. It uses a 274B rectifier tube from Valve Art. Once during listening, the rectifier tube blew and so did the fuse. I replaced the fuse and replaced the rectifier with another 274B from Valve Art. Then, days later, I turned the amp on and same thing happened at power up. Fuse blew, rectifier went. I changed the fuse again and added my third (and last) rectifier tube. Every time I turn the amp on now, I take a deep breath and turn my head. What the hell is going on here? I think a rectifier turns AC to DC (dangerous). If the rectifier goes, than damage could occur to the transformers,tubes or the whole amp could take a dump. I just put some great KT77's in here and I don't want anything bad to happen. Is it the Valve Art tube? Is it shoddy workmanship in a cheap Chinese amp? Help.
devilboy

Showing 3 responses by devilboy

devilboy OP
818 posts
 
Yes, I'm using slow blow fuses.

The rectifiers and fuses went before AND after I changed output tubes. The second time, electricity arched from one side of the rectifier to the other. Yes, I was told to check the filter caps and look into a short or bad solder joint. Thank you all for your input. I will post my findings ASAP.
devilboy OP
818 posts
 
Could we get back to the issue here?
devilboy OP
818 posts
 
Atmasphere: The first time the rec. went, it happened after 30 mins of use. The second time, it happened two seconds after power up. The amp is going back, but thanks for getting this back on track Atma.
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