ARC LS7 preamp channels drop out intermittently


Hello all!

I have an Audio Research LS7 preamp that, AFAIK, still has its original tube set. Recently, its developed an issue where one of the channels drops out during listening, or fails to operate after powering on. The issue is not isolated to one specific channel...it can happen to either left or right, but oddly enough, never to both at the same time. I can usually correct the issue by shutting it down, waiting a few minutes and turning it back on, but recently I’ve needed to do this 2-3 times to get the affected channel working again. I’ve pretty much isolated it to my pre-amp; both my channels are driven by ARC D240 MKII solid-state amps running in bridged/monoblock configuration & all my connections are good. Speakers are KEF Blade Two’s that I bought new about 5 months ago. Could this be a sign that my output stage's tube is failing?  As this is the first tubed gear I’ve owned, I'm not experienced in troubleshooting or knowing when tubes start to go bad.  

Appreciate any thoughts or suggestions...Hope you’re all doing well!

Arvin

128x128arvincastro

@oddiofyl ​​@ghdprentice 

Thanks for the tips!

I just ordered 4 Electro-Harmonix 6922 Gold Tip tubes from Upscale. I did go for the Platinum grade, non-cryo versions. I was considering the Gold Lions, but figured I could always go that route if I wanted a more lush, warm sound than what the EH tubes will give. As this will be the first time replacing the tubes for me, I wanted something “close” to the stock sound I’ve grown to love…which, from what I’ve researched, the EH are, but with a touch more warmth and presence in the mid-range. I also did check the tube connections and contacts; all seemed good, but the problem remained.  So, I’m hoping the replacement tubes are all I need…

Will let you guys know how it goes when I get them installed.  Thanks again!

Arvin

Hello all!

Just wanted to close the loop and say the replacement tubes seem to have solved the channel drop-out issues I was having.  As a side benefit, the Electro-Harmonix Gold Tip tubes have a decidedly improved the sound of my system when compared to the stock Sovtek tubes.  These guys definitely have a meatier, weightier mid-range to them, without losing any noticeable detail up high…though, to be fair, I would probably wish for just a tad more “sparkle”/energy up there.  Also, the bass hits harder and faster out of my KEF Blade Two’s than before.  So, all-in-all, what a great repair and upgrade solution!

Thanks for everyone’s help and suggestions…the Audiogon forum community comes through yet again!  

Happy Listening!

Arvin