200313 ES TMS Amplifier Operating Instructions ENV12
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The average valve lifetime is about 5,000 to 10,000 hours, corresponding to 5 to 10 years of
normal use. In fact, the lifetime of valves can vary from several hundred to several tens of
thousands of running hours but this cannot be predicted exactly for each valve and depends
to some extent on operating and transport conditions. At some time, a valve may fail or the
sound quality of the amplifier may suffer because of valve performance degradation due to
aging.
TMS uses new valves available from current manufacture, rather than “New Old Stock”
(NOS) ones. This measure is intended to prevent redundancy even after stocks of NOS
valves are exhausted.
Various warning symptoms indicate impending valve failure, such as:
-
excessive distortion
-
intermittent lack of sound unrelated to proper source connections
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crackling sounds
In the event of valve failure one or more of the following symptoms may be observed:
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failure to heat up
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missing orange glow
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complete lack of sound, in one or both channels
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flashover within the valve, usually found in output valves
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strong blue coloration of the gas within the valve
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white discolouration of silver coating in the valve, indicating vacuum failure.
Switch off the amplifier immediately and unplug the power cable from the mains outlet.
The affected valve or (recommended) valve pair will need replacement. As an aid to
servicing, if possible please note which valve or which channel is affected.
Follow the instructions for changing or replacing a valve below or, if you prefer, refer to
qualified personnel.
Turn off the amplifier and allow it to cool down.
Unplug the power cable from the mains outlet. Keep the mains plug within sight.
Remove the glass top by unscrewing the chrome caps on the four corner posts.
Place the glass sheet in a safe place where it cannot fall down.
Remove the knobs of the channel selector switch and the volume control.
Depending on the knob type you will need either a No. 1 (3mm) flat screwdriver or a 2.5mm
hexagonal key to loosen the grub screw. Unscrew the grub screws about 2 turns and pull the
knobs of the channel selector switch and the volume control off.
Trouble Shooting – Valves
Changing or Replacing a Valve
TMS 6060B
TMS 6060B and TMS 6060P