2. amps-preamps
  3. 1118275078

correct way to turn off tube preamp

I recently purchased a tube preamp. My other equipment is SS which I leave on 24/7. From what I have read I don't want to leave the pre on all the time. When done listening is it ok to put the amp in standby mode, then turn off the pre?,, or should I turn off the pre--leaving the amp on and then going to standby mode on the amp. When I do the latter I get a very samll 'thump' heard through the speakers. Thank you.
classical1
newbee
4,093 posts
 
Best to put the amp in standby first and if your pre-amp has a mute function also the activate it as well. Belt and suspenders perhaps, but its free and should rule out absentmindedness.
hpims
125 posts
 
I just flip the on-off switch on the McIntosh C22. The MC275 amp is plugged into a Tripplite surge/noise reducer. It has a switch, too. All my stuff is plugged into it. I never leave any of it on....the ultimate surge protector!

Q: Why would you want to leave your amp on all the time? Heat is the enemy of solid state components. Makes them break down faster!!
classical1 OP
168 posts
 
Hpims, I think a lot of folks would disagree with you about turning off the SS. My equipment doesn't run hot when idle and most threads I've read say it's harder on the SS to turn it on and off, plus, at least to my ears it sounds a lot better being left on... and thanks Newbee for the advice.
raytheprinter's avatar
raytheprinter
1,232 posts
 
turn your amp off or on standby first then turn preamp off,visa versa,turn on your preamp first,wait a min. then turn your amp on,,
jafox
1,348 posts
 
I got in the habit years ago of turning the level control all the way down, then I power down the amp(s), wait 10-15 seconds before I power down the preamp, then power down the sources. This is for tubed gear. For solid state gear, I leave it powered on.
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