What Happens When Preamp Tubes Need Replacing?

When preamp tubes need replacing, how do you know? What are the tell-tale signs sonically and otherwise?

Thanks in advance.

elf7311-10-2008 3:05am

newbee Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 4,751 posts 11-10-2008 at 03:49am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete New noise, typically hiss crackle and pops, but also hum. The sneaky one is that gradually the tubes become rolled off and lose lusture. Pays to have an identical set about and every year or so plug them in and see if there is much, or any, difference. Good to do also because you will be cleaning the crud off the pins as the friction involved will scrape the pins.
newbee Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 4,751 posts 11-10-2008 at 03:26pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Ah, the expense of driving in the fast lane! As has been pointed out many times, if you can 'afford' a Ferrari in the first place who cares how much maintenance it takes or what mileage it gets. And in todays market a few extra tube sets are probably a better investment than in the markets or anywhere for that matter. I'm continually amazed that such frugal folks as you two guys can actually destroy these NOS tubes by using them. :-)