I recall from the reviews in TAS and Stereophile that ARC felt if you left the unit on all the time it would sound best, but you'd need to replace the tubes every 9 months or so. It's possible using better quality tubes might extend that life. Tough to tell when they're gone, because the sound deteriorates gradually so you don't notice the difference as readily, but in my case my system started to sound a little lifeless, lacking dynamic punch and clarity. There will definitely be more noise as well as the tubes start to go. And watch out for pops and sputtering!
It's Time To Change ARC SP-11 Tubes When.....
I bought this preamp about 3-4 years ago with brand new tubes and have not used it a lot.
Lately, however, I have been leaving it on 24/7.
(Maybe I am imagining things, but I would say my system sounds dramatically smoother when I leave the amps on.)
In the 24/7 mode, how frequently would you recommend changing the preamp's tubes?
When these tubes begin to deteriorate, what are the clues?
More noise? Changes to soundstage? Less detail?
I have a new set waiting in the box from ARC. Sounds pretty good to me now, but wondering if it should be even better.
Thanks.
Lately, however, I have been leaving it on 24/7.
(Maybe I am imagining things, but I would say my system sounds dramatically smoother when I leave the amps on.)
In the 24/7 mode, how frequently would you recommend changing the preamp's tubes?
When these tubes begin to deteriorate, what are the clues?
More noise? Changes to soundstage? Less detail?
I have a new set waiting in the box from ARC. Sounds pretty good to me now, but wondering if it should be even better.
Thanks.