2. amps-preamps
  3. 1263658638

ARC Ref 3 bad tube?

I recently have developed a nasty sounding sporadic crackling sound in my system. It only happens once during each listening session. The crackling also comes out of both speakers in stereo. I have an ARC Ref 3 preamp and an Arc Ref 110 amp. I believe I have a bad tube but would like some opinions to make sure. I had my amp serviced in September 2009 by Arc so I don't think there is a problem there. The tubes in the amp have 1300 hours on them. The Ref 3 has 2500 hours on it. I replaced the four rear tubes at 850 hours with 6h30p-dr super tubes. The 6h30p tube under the 6550c power tube is orginal however. I replaced the 6550c tube in the preamp at 2200 hours. This is what I think is possibly wrong.
1.) The original 6h30p tube could be bad since it must get pretty hot from the 6550c tube above it.
2.) I noticed the 6550c tube has a strange looking white residue sticking to the inside of the glass. It almost looks like fine particles resembling styrofoam. That doesn't seem right to me.
I think it would be one of these two tubes since I get the bad crackling sound in stereo and not just one channel.

Thanks in advance for any advice.
tlg

Showing 1 response by kenklein1

kenklein1
20 posts
 
Calvin and the manager of service recommended changing the 6550 in my REF5 every 2000hrs, if you wait until it fails, expect a large repair bill.
Also, having owned several tube gear in the past, I recommend paying the extra and getting them from ARC. They test each tube and warranty them. I also recommend always having a spare set of tubes on hand just in case. Also, they are now using 6550EH instead of C tubes because they think they sound better. When I have my REF5 upgraded to SE in May-June, I will have them retube including the EH tube. Happy Listening!
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