How Long Should a First Watt SIT3 Last ?

Thank you all for the recommendations. I am waiting to hear the verdict on my Quicksilvers, its been two weeks and I am eager.

The next step is always right in front of you.

TD 

I’ve been a tube guy since the early ’70s. Lots of high quality tube amps over the years. Have been using Lamm ML2 SET amps since around 2006 in a chain that is all tube, from phono, to power supply, to line stage, to amps. I use NOS tubes throughout.

I’ve been considering a back up, especially for summer (it gets a tad hot here in Central Texas) and I want to minimize my tube consumption (the big Russian triodes aren’t hard to find, but getting pairs that work in the amps requires me to buy them through Lamm).

One low powered SS amp (mono blocs) that is supposed to be a contender is the Valvet. It doesn’t get a lot of publicity, but the company has been around for a long time, the amps are made to a high specification in Germany. Worth a look if you you are considering a change from tubes. (I don’t expect these to have the same magic as the Lamm SETs but from folks who are familiar with the sonic signature of both, the Valvet is considered a real contender in SS). There is a US distributor who has handled the line for a while. 

Good luck. I remember Quicksilver from ye olde days-- a well regarded brand. Though tubes can be a PITA, they are often pretty simple to have repaired.

@tonydennison You can buy on the Bay a Sonance Sonamp 260, shipped, for under $100, all in. A very nice amp at the price and would be an excellent back up for your Heresys. You could have been listening to music through your system this entire time. Everyone should have a backup. My best, MrD.

Hi Tony. I don't know if you're still undecided as to whom to let service your Quickies but the first guy I'd call lives and has his business in MSPL. Give Ralph @ Atma-sphere a call. He can and has worked on all kinds of tube amps, regardless of design philosophy or brand and I have no doubt that he could service yours.

I got my Quicksilvers back today, listening to Diet ILg presently old friend.

Jeff  said the problem was that the old style way to bias the tubes in these with the LEDs had failed. He added some multimeter plugs to set the bias. All sounding great and for those using PSAudio, I went back to Windom today.

All told, the bill came to barely $200.

Happy Camper.

Thanks all,

TD