amplifier longevity

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.

The best valve amps with point to point wiring are more reliable and long-lived than anything solid state. Except every once in a while over time one of the valves can spring a leak.

Yep, heat is the biggest enemy. Point to point wiring and greater spaciousness a good thing, best quality parts with higher heat ratings and cooling with fans helpful. Inrush current is in fact a concern with tube amps, my 845 SET with nearly 1000V has huge caps to charge up, this is major wear and tear. Point is be judicious with turning tube amps on and off.

@buellrider97 Sorry to hear having to give up the bike. Purchased my first Ducati this past summer, both tubes and Ducati have character!