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Power On Power Off

Hello Audio Community, 

I have an Audio Research power amp and preamp, both tube models.  When it comes to tube gear, I have been told not to leave it on for too long when not playing it, if for nothing else, to keep from wasting tube life.  I am sure there is some debate here, but that is not my question.  I would like to know what the consensus is on turning on and off tube gear.  Someone told me that after I power off the tube amps, I should wait for 15 minutes before I turn them back on to avoid damaging the amps or tubes.  Of course under normal circumstances, this is not an issue, but what about the less than normal circumstances such as A:B testing of a power cable, or other similar moments?  Should I always wait before switching a warm, but powered off amp back on?  Is the reverse also an issue?  Can I turn off a tube amp too quickly after turning it on?
marktomaras
8 responses Add your response
johnziomas's avatar
johnziomas
41 posts
 
I'm also interested in this question.  Might want to move it to the Amp-preamp section to get some replies.
jea48
4,266 posts
 
I should wait for 15 minutes before I turn them back on to avoid damaging the amps or tubes.

On my ARC tube amp I wait at least 5 minutes. YMMV.

Should I always wait before switching a warm, but powered off amp back on? Is the reverse also an issue? Can I turn off a tube amp too quickly after turning it on?

Turning off a power amp is not a problem. Turning it back on too soon after shutdown can do harm to the amp or possibly your speakers.

The main reason you should wait a reasonable time before powering back up a power amp is to allow the electrolytic caps in the power supply to discharge. Failure to do so could damage the power supply or possibly damage your speakers from a loud transient spike thump.

If you have ever experienced a loss of mains AC power caused by the Utility Power Company for 10 or 15 seconds and then come back on you more than likely have experienced the loud thump sound through your speakers.








bifwynne
2,206 posts
 
I recall that Kal at ARC gave me the same advice as jea48 just posted, ... wait 5 minutes.  Kal said the reason for the wait is to let the PS caps to discharge.  Having said that, my memory is fading and I suggest that if this is a real concern, call Kal and get the advice directly from the source.  

Also, other manufacturers may offer different advice for their gear, be it tube or solid state.  While this is a good forum to raise the question, the best place to get the answer is the manufacturer.  IMHO.

Chears,

BIF
marktomaras OP
544 posts
 
Thanks all, that makes perfect sense about the energy in the power supply.  I appreciate your comments!
don_c55
1,025 posts
 
Stupid Post IMO!

Turn on the tube equipment 15 minutes before listening to warm up.

Shut off after you are done listening.

Do not turn off, and then quickly turn back on, tube equipment.

Do you only listen for less than an hour at a time?

A:B testing requires the equipment to be "FULLY WARMED UP" for accurate results.

Short time A:B testing is worthless, and will tell you nothing.

It takes more listening time to fully evaluate, the complexity, of sound quality.

marktomaras OP
544 posts
 
Don,

You make some valid points, but no reason to be rude about it.  I appreciate your time and your thoughts, but let's try to maintain a friendly demeanor here!
don_c55
1,025 posts
 
Sorry for being snarky.

I would guess that someone who owns expensive ARC equipment knows better.

I did not know you are a novice.
marktomaras OP
544 posts
 
Damn Don, an apology for being snarky followed by a pair of additional snarky comments!  

No no need to respond.  This isn't the proper forum for a pissing match, some people prefer to be polite, some don't.  Have a nice day.
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