Average life for power tubes is 1500 to 2000 hours. That was about what I was going to say, about 2,000 hours. That is an estimate for the large power tubes like your EL34s. Because of the number of hours on your current set of tubes, when one of them goes bad, I would replace the whole quad, with a new matching quad.
How long do vacuum tubes last?
Depending on how often you turn on and turn off your gear, but tubes should last about 5,000 to 10,000 hours. For most people, they only need to be replaced every 2-3 years at most.
How do you know when your power tubes need replacing?
Crackling, squeals and feedback, excessive noise and muddiness or low output are all evidence of tube problems. Power tubes. The two main symptoms of a power tube problem are a blown fuse or a tube that begins to glow cherry red. Either are typically indicative of a power tube failure.
Why do vacuum tubes fail?
A very common cause of glass breakage in vacuum tubes is bent pins. When they are inserted into sockets that tend to force them into alignment, tension is de- veloped where the pin enters the glass. This tension in- creases when the tube is heated and cooled.
How long do power tubes last?
Power tubes can last years in a light-playing situation while lasting only 6 months in heavy playing conditions. It is also dependent on how loud you play and for how long. Also if you dont correctly match up the impedances, this will put strain on the power tubes and wear them down much faster.
Do vacuum tubes glow?
Their distinctive orange, red, or purple glow during operation indicates the presence of gas; electrons flowing in a vacuum do not produce light within that region. These types may still be referred to as electron tubes as they do perform electronic functions.
Can you clean vacuum tubes?
Cleaning Vacuum Tubes This can be accomplished with any number of contact cleaners or with good, clean Isopropyl alcohol (96-99% pure if possible; DONT use rubbing alcohol - it contains minerals and oils that tubes dont like).
Can KT77 replace EL34?
EL34, 6CA7 and KT77 are all drop-in replacement of each other. You can use 6CA7 or KT77 in place of EL34. Electrically, they are the same. Yes, EL34, 6CA7 and KT77 are not the same when you hear them, and there is a reason for it.
Why do vacuum tubes glow blue?
Blue Glow – We often get asked if blue glow inside of a vacuum tube is a sign of a defect. Thankfully, it is rarely a sign of a defect at all. It is most pronounced on power tubes and is the product of electron bombardment of the glass taking place within the tube.