Mcintosh C 220 pre amp tube life....


Hi Folks:
Recently purchased a McIntosh C 220 pre amp (Store demo) with about 200 hours on it. Any idea on how long the tube life is for a 12AX7 A set of tubes in a Mcintosh? I also bought the MC 252 amp to go with it. Wonderful combination. Just wondering if one listens on average of 2 to 4 hours a day, how long I should go before changing the tubes out. Thanks!
128x128trumpetbri
It's usually 10K hrs. however, sonically they might go down hill sooner than that. Since it happens so slowly, the only way to know for sure is to replace them and see if you hear an improvement in the sound.
Replace the stock Mc tubes for improved sonics. Genalex Gold Lions or Psvane Treasures.
I have owned the C220, C2200 and now the C2300. I have never needed to replace my 12AX7's. I use my preamp most of the day for my fm. I think the tube life also depends on how many on/off start up cycles they endure.

Very satisfied with the tube life and reliability.