When I owned Rogue ST100 a power tube failed and with it took out several parts in that channel. I live only about an hour and a half away from rogue audio and dropped the amp off for repair. I sold it shortly after and never bought another tube amp.
A properly designed top flight modern solid state component, be it the amp, preamp, phono stage or DAC, is no less musical than a tube component. Especially considering that modern tube gear doesn’t sound much like the classic tubes. SS is more consistent sonically, performs just as well, and imparts way less audiophile nervosa on its owner than tubes. Nothing to roll. Press the button and enjoy music.
Power Tube Failure
A little while ago a small tube (in my Phono-Preamp) died. It was a subtle affair in which the tube turned white and the glass cracked, not necessarily in that order. This failure was interesting, but not dangerous.
Yet, this event got me wondering - what happens when a power tube dies?
My Preamp's power tube runs quite hot, and I am concerned it may be a FIRE HAZARD when that tube fails.
My second concern is that my Preamp may be DAMAGED when the power tube dies.
So, I am hoping to hear from anyone who has EXPERIENCED a power tube failure and can provide any insight regarding what to expect.
notes:
a. Yes, my Preamp counts hours, but I own several power tubes and do not know how many hours of service each has provided.
b. Testing these tubes is not plausible - I do not have a tube-tester, and there are no HiFi retailers within a reasonable driving distance.
Thanks in advance for your stories!
Best,
- ...
- 45 posts total
| Post removed |
+1 If you change tubes at recommended times it is very unlikely they will "go out". Tubes age out typically by hardening sound, or lower output. but occasionally will flash, even less commonly pop. Very occasionally they will crack and blow... very uncommon, but it does happen. Far more likely with old tubes beyond their recommended usage. Under the latter circumstances it may take out the resistor next to the tube... placed there for that very reason to protect the rest of the amp. Seldom it it more than that. A friend of mine had a problem with a tube amp from Rogue within the warrantee period and they would not fix it because it was tube related... so I will not buy or recommend Rogue products. I have run tubes for a couple decades and never experienced a popped tube. It is uncommon but occasionally happens. If you think there may be a couple thousand hours on the tubes... I'd just change them out and reset the counter. Then you can be sure of getting the best sound and know where you stand. |
To all: Thanks for all of the comments. I seems that I may need to go tube-tester shopping... @paradisecom - special thanks, I did not realize music/guitar shops may test tubes. Also, my question is NOT specific to ARC tubes, but to power tubes in general. ("I own several power tubes and do not know how many hours of service each has provided".)
Thanks again for relaying you experiences regarding power tubes that have died. Regards, |
- 45 posts total