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My tube amp sounds darker now.

I'm using Siemens CCAs, and after putting around 100 hours on the tubes, they are almost too dark sounding now. When I first got them, after about 20 hours of use I thought the sound was a hair too bright, so I bought warm cables to offset that, and everything was perfect for awhile. But now I think the sound is too dark, and I'm about to try some different cables again.
I noticed this just after I accidently left my amp on overnight (for 12 hours). This didn't damage the tube / amp did it? Ugh, what gives?
nemesis1218
ths364
181 posts
 
My tube amp sounds best after it has been on for several hours. Aural memory is very unreliable- listen further and see if your ears adjust before making changes. I've listened to systems I thought incredible, and on later re-asessment I found them bright or forward or rolled off. I only change things when a I notice a pattern or tendency that spans several sessions.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
Knghifi has a valid point. Real Siemens are very open and detailed. Can u try different tubes as a test?
ts0711
91 posts
 
Have you checked your Bias?
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,879 posts
 
You might also want to test the tubes. If they are weak (especially driver tubes), that can easily contribute to darkness in the amp.
wescoman
117 posts
 
Just wanted to add my $0.02 to the conversation. I agree with others who've said something doesn't sound right when you say the Siemens CCAs sound "dark". I just installed four Siemens 1960s vintage, grey plate, silver pin, 6DJ8s in my Manley Chinook. All I can say is WOW. Their reputation is well-deserved. Siemens tubes (genuine) don't sound anything like "dark". If you can return them, that might be an option. Contact Andy at Vintage Tube Services - he stocks Siemens tubes.
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