The biggest benefit of a tube cage is it can insure your tubes don't climb out and run away when you're not paying attention. I hate that. On a more accurate note, I think the dust that gets into the tube holes (I dust my cageless Jolida frequently and have thought about this) can be ignored for a couple of years and then removed by taking the amp apart and dusting the innards...being careful not to electrocute yourself...there's nothing cute about electrocute...
Tube Cage On or Off. Does it Make any Difference?
Hey guys. I have a Mystere ca11 tube preamp which I really like. It's paired with CODA 10.5r SS amp, Manley Chinook preamp, Rega Planar 25 turntable, Dynavector 10X5, and Totem Sttaf speakers. I enjoy taking the tube cage off in order to amuse myself by watching the illuminated tubes while spinning vinyl. The question I have is whether removal of the tube cage affects performance of the device or sound in any way. I've played albums both ways [cage on and off] but can't really discern any sonic differences but wondered about the scientific aspect of my decision. Your thoughts are appreciated. Cheers!