2. amps-preamps
  3. 159994-129692

Leave tube amps always on?

Mark, the owner of Linear Tube Audio, suggested I leave my tube amps on all the time 24/7 if im listenting every day, and to turn them off if not using for a period of time, a few days or for example we go away.  His reasoning was that it uses considerable more energy to turn on/off on a regular basis. 

Do others agree?  Kinda risky since these NOS Mullard tubes ain't cheap and will soon be gone forever.   
aj523
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,882 posts
 
there is a class most Physicist skip...Engineering Economics.....


tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,882 posts
 
but this is a super good thread.....
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
no - what a stupid idea
gs5556
1,231 posts
 
The way I read it is his reasoning is based on environmental concerns and not the life of the tubes. I have had a Cat preamp for over 25 years and there is no difference in sound after 20 minutes of playing no matter how long it is left on. Based on that, I see no reason to leave them on for a minute more than when you are done listening for the day.
daveyf's avatar
daveyf
2,857 posts
 
Leaving a tube amp on 24/7 implies that it will be left on unattended. If one of the tubes fails and the amp is unattended this could cause a significant fire hazard IMO. I would NEVER leave my tube amps or preamp on 24/7 under any circumstances.
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