2. tech-talk
  3. 164480-157369

rule of thumb: how long do you leave a tube preamp on versus turning it off then back on?

I just upgraded to an Audio Research REF 10 with 12 tubes and I am wondering how to best preserve the tubes. How long sitting turned on is equal to the wear and tear of turning it off then on again? I had a Rogue RP 7 with just four tubes so I didn't worry about this issue so much, I just turned it on when I began to listen then off at the end of the evening. Now I'm wondering where the sweet spot is? Away for a hour, two, three, turn it off when? Am I over-thinking this issue?
wokeuptobose
wokeuptobose's avatar
wokeuptobose OP
139 posts
 
Thank you both. I'm over thinking it as just after I purchased my REF 10 I saw the forum comments here a couple days ago about ARC equipment blowing tubes, and the further comments about how the guy couldn't
get it to be reliable. So he felt he needed to go to a Pass preamp. That is just the kind of story that gets my over worrying mind busy!!
willgolf
941 posts
 
For me solid state never turn off.  For tubes turn off after usage.  I have 16 300B tubes in my mono amps alone plus another 8 rectifier tubes.  That can add up in my mind.  

tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,624 posts
 
I suggest that you call AR and do what they tell you.  This question comes up frequently and advice is all over the place on it. 

I'd also start saving up for a set of replacement tubes.  Not that you need to worry about them, but it will be nice to have the money set aside when you do need them.
jjss49's avatar
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
30 min turn on for me, prior to listening intently
noromance's avatar
noromance
10,076 posts
 
20 minutes warm up for me including turntable does the trick. But, it all sounds so much better after about 6 hours. Turn off when done. Best not to leave powered up tube gear unattended.
More to discover