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Microphonic Amps?

I have a valve amp (EL34 in ultralinear config).
I have read that valves are microphonic...what does this mean exactly. Will outboard vibrations be picked up (why?) and transmitted as sound deficiencies (again how?) ?
If this is the case, do i need to take equal care isolating my amp as much as I would, say, a turntable?

thanx for any help
128x128gaffer74

Showing 2 responses by gaffer74

gaffer74's avatar
gaffer74 OP
2 posts
 
Thanx for that everyone (nicely explained :-) )
In that case, do I take as much care as with turntable placement....would an anti-resonance base help or would tube rings be a better bet re: next purchase?

PS, my amp is integrated, with the pre-amp section being 4 small GEC valves, and the power amp section being 4 large Svetlana EL34 valves:
http://www.affordablevalvecompany.co.uk/
gaffer74's avatar
gaffer74 OP
2 posts
 
Thanx everyone.
My system currently sounds fantastic, and I cannot really find significant probs...but would just like to optimize anything that can be (if that makes any sense).
I have my system in a particularly bass heavy corner of the room on a steel glass stand with halved squash balls under each foot to try to minimize vibrations further.
Again..I can't hear any odd/problem areas as such, but just wanted to get the best in the area I have the equipment currently.
Thanx for all your input....I think I'll spend further dosh on music instead ;-) as I feel I have it isolated as much as i can, and it sounds great.
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