Survival Tips For Tube Amplifiers:
To prolong tube life, observe these tips and recommendations:
• Match the impedance of your speaker cabinet(s) to your amplifier. Improper impedance matching will con-
tribute to early tube degradation and may cause premature tube failure.
• Make sure the speaker(s) are properly connected prior to turning on the amplifier.
• After playing the amplifier, allow sufficient time for it to properly cool down prior to moving it. A
properly cooled amplifier prolongs tube life due to the internal components being less susceptible to
the damage caused by vibration.
• Allow the amplifier to warm up to room temperature before turning it on. The heat generated by the tube
elements can crack a cold glass housing.
• Replace the output tube(s) before the performance degrades or the tubes fail completely. Replace the
tube(s) on a regular basis (at least once per year or as often as every 4 to 6 months if you play long
and hard every day).
• Always have the bias checked after replacing the output tubes (unless the amplifier is equipped with
"self-biasing circuitry"). This should be done ONLY at a qualified service center. Improper biasing could
result in the tubes running too hot, which greatly reduces the life of the tubes – or too cold, which
results in distorted sound regardless of level settings. Do not play the amplifier if it exhibits these
symptoms – get the bias checked/adjusted immediately to prevent tube failure and/or other damage.
• If the locating notch on the base of a power tube breaks off, replace the tube. This significantly
reduces the risk of damaging your amplifier by incorrectly inserting the tube.
• Protect the amplifier from dust and moisture. If liquid gets into the amplifier proper, or if the ampli-
fier is dropped or otherwise mechanically abused, have it checked out at an authorized service center
before using it.
• Proper maintenance and cleaning in combination with routine checkups by your authorized service center
will insure the best performance and longest life from your amplifier.
CAUTION: Tube replacement should be performed only by qualified service personnel who are
familiar with the dangers of hazardous voltages that are typically present in tube cir-
cuitry.
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