Tube DAC Conundrum


I have the Blacknote DAC30 which has 4 tubes in it. I read that digital stuff should be left on for everyday listening, but won't that use up the tube life a lot quicker? I am willing to change the tubes every year if leaving them on all the time will get me that far, but I don't know.
koestner
""The issue with digital equipment is that the clocks need to be at thermal equilibrium for optimal performance."

I would hope that modern DACs would not be bothered by this too much, if they're designed right."

WTF? You must not understand the clocks then. They do need to reach equilibrium- period. It is how they are made. There is a reason why crystal ovens exist. It has nothing to do with signal(data) passing either.
There is no right or wrong. There are ups and downs no matter what you chose, so just listen and enjoy and do whatever works for you. Be prepared to replace tubes more frequently if you leave it on. An nobody expects an accident. That is why they are called accidents. Those are the things that can really cost you when they happen. So be forewarned.
As I asked yesterday, could someone please explain the danger or risk of leaving small signal tubes on 24/7?
"As I asked yesterday, could someone please explain the danger or risk of leaving small signal tubes on 24/7?"

I don't know. That's why its a risky proposition to me.

For example, I've seen our cleaning lady dislodge teh tube in my tube dac when cleaning. Not so much as to cause a problem, but perhaps just a matter of degree. What if a child sees the bright glowy tube and pulls it out when on?

Dunno. But those are the kinds of unexpected things worth considering. If teh sound is that much better with the tube left on, maybe teh benefits outweigh the risks. Or not? Who's to say.

if someone explains the risks, hope that they are both right about what they say and also that they are not overlooking something.
WTF? You must not understand the clocks then. They do need to reach equilibrium- period. It is how they are made. There is a reason why crystal ovens exist. It has nothing to do with signal(data) passing either.
4est (System | Answers | This Thread)

All in the same box. Everything will warm up more.

Jitter reduction.

I don't worry about it.

Worry all you want.

Again, I'll enjoy my music.