amplifier longevity

Re: the comment on Counterpoint Mosfets and heat It’s common practice for TO3 devices, mosfet or bipolar, to be covered by plastic covers.  They are there to prevent law suits when people get zapped by the + - rails voltages.  The heat of these devices are dissipated by conduction to the aluminum chassis via the silicone pad.  There’s absolutely no issues with that approach to mounting and using QCovers. 

Terry 9:is corr3ct heat is a destroyer that’s why good electronics have them well ventilated,they only thing that don’t mind heat all digital clocks .

@johnsonwu  as you know, like you I have been repairing Counterpoint components for some time now.  While it was a common practice and there for a reason, I have also seen many covers with holes so the heat does not get trapped.

While it may not be the single cause of failure, IMO and from repairing about 50 Counterpoint power amplifiers, I would suggest that the covers while providing a benefit, are not optimal for heat dissipation.

YMMV

Happy Listening.

32 year old NAK PA-7A MKII & CA-7A pre here.

Both checked out by ex NAK tech early this year. They're in A+ condition.

Caps are in great shape, and tech says you couldn't buy better ones even now no matter what you spent.

      Here’s my 2 cents , based on my experience.   First heat is the enemy, all amplifiers need proper ventilation. I’ve added fans to setups that generate high heat. Tubes are a wear item , especially power tubes and degrade over time. So you WILL be replacing tubes over time. I’ve had a tube failure that caused the glass envelope to crack, but no additional damage. I’ve had a new power tube fail that resulted in internal damage and required Dennis Had to rebuild the power supply section. I also own Rogue and have seen LCD screens fail and circuit boards fail. Also consider some tube amps are point to point and some use printed circuits. Overall SS is more reliable and significantly less effort to maintain.  However I personally enjoy the TUBE sound and I’m willing to deal with the maintenance issues. In my opinion comparing tube to SS, but s like comparing Ducati to Yamaha. I believe that audio, like motorcycles is most appreciated when we experience as many different styles as possible. And FWIW I just sold my Buell and my HD due to age. Happy Listening, Mike B.