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
@inagroove you can use something like this |
@mulveling great, and useful, stories... thanks. They convince me that I really should consider purchasing a tester.
@elliottbnewcombjr I looked all three - great stuff. Certainly appeals to my geeky side. Having never used a tester, I am wondering how I can you confirm if any (or all) of the testers measure ALL of the key parameters - resistance? transconductance? amplification? microphonics? Any thoughts? (I realize that is a novice question, but I am not clear if different manufactures call one parameter by different names, etc. Most of the photos lack enough information.). Thanks in advance |
- 45 posts total