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Paranoid on Tube Amp Install

Can speakers cause a tube amp to catch fire? The last tube amp in my system 3 years ago caught fire (just 2 minutes after installing). I always assumed the amp was damaged in shipping. I just ordered another tube amp and I'm both excited and nervous about installing. The speakers are Acoustat 3300 electrostatics and I've been using ss amps since without issue. I really don't want to sit in my chair again, frozen in shock, as I watch a blue flame.

Thanks for any feedback,

Glenn
simmonsg
lapierre
547 posts
 
Check the tubes and the fuse. Ensure you have stable AC as well.

My tube amp blew a fuse because a faulty driver tube. I replaced the orginal fuse with upgraded HiFi fuses as well as new drivers and power tubes.
4est
507 posts
 
Think of it this way. You have been stuck by lightning once. What are the odds it will happen again? Most gear, tube amps included, don't catch on fire. Obviously they can as you well know, but in my 30 years in this hobby (including some real hack mods in the 80's), I have never had a piece catch on fire. Don't get me wrong, there was plenty of smoke a couple of times, but never fire. Bias it up outside of your system and let it run in for an hour before you risk you speakers.
rhljazz
1,250 posts
 
Bias it up outside of your system and let it run in for an hour before you risk you speakers.
4est (Threads | Answers)

All tube amps I am familiar with should never be powered up without a load connected (ie speakers).
rockadanny
1,222 posts
 
And might want to get you a long-handled broomstick to push the power button on. Wood, preferrably.
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