Leaving my amplifier on ok?


Would it be ok to leave my amplifier on all the time if I want to extend the reliability of the amp? Many amplifiers ar Class A, high current bias and tubes might be a problem if energy consumption is a factor. Not to mention Excessive heat from bias operation. Is it possible to extend the life of the amp with leaving it on all the time?

highend64

First, yes, there are many older posts that discuss this topic at length.  However, the OP asked a question and is requesting help, not a scolding for not reviewing prior posts.

If you don't want to help, then don't answer. 

Second, most new components have soft start circuitry that dramatically reduce the inrush and damage to components.  So this shouldn't be an issue with newer components.

I have yet to hear any high end system that didn't sound great after about 45 minutes of warm up.

There are so many golden ears out there.  But really, your system sounds like crap even after an hour of warm up?  really?

If you aren't concerned about tube life, then leave them on 24/7.  Just remember, sometimes with heat and leaving on, when they go, they really go spectacularly, and may take your home with it.

I never leave my system components on.  When I want to listen, I turn it on, do some other things, and then after a warm up period settle down and enjoy.

Most manufacturers won't recommend leaving they devices on 24/7.  Some low powered stuff may be okay.

I have some pretty decent tube gear and power tubes typically last 2000 hours and are really expensive.

I've had an amp or two launch a tube or two with resistors and other circuitry.  Not fun and thankfully I was home.

I have a Krell KBS balanced crossover made specifically for my Martin Logan Monolith III speakers that is always on, no power switch.  Which I believe is really stupid.  Some components went up in flames.  So, subsequently, after repairing it, I unplug that sucker most times until it is needed.

But, it is up to you.  Listen after an hour or so warm up.  Then listen after 24 hours of it being left on.  Hear any difference?  Of course you have to go by memory on this one.

There you go.

enjoy

Looks like what I stated, and the few responses are in this limited space a case of s 'pearls before swine'.

As stated, the MANUFACTURERS Recommendations are the only ones worth seriously considering, and are the ones that will be investigated by a authority, especially a Insurance Company at the time of a Claim, if the device is the cause of the claim.

What is thrown around on a forum is BS to these types, they will not be looking for any advice in such a place. 

Hence, "Speak to your Home Insurance and Amp's Manufacturer."

I switched off all my gears when they are not in use, not even in standby mode. 

I think a good setup needs to sound very good even with little warmup. I would turn on my setup, let it warm up for 5 minutes max, and immediately enjoy aural bliss. I don't think a setup should sound drastically that different with longer warm up. If it is, perhaps invest in better components?

MANUFACTURERS Recommendations are the only ones worth seriously considering

Good point.

I have had some manufactures advise to "leave on" ss components, and to "turn off", when not using for a while.

Most modern designs are going to have a standby mode where the component consumes very little power. Usually .5 watts or less.  It’s pretty apparent that they are intended to be in standby mode when not in use.  I noticed even holdouts like Naim have finally embraced energy conservation and have this feature in the new classic line and statement amps.  
Older designs without a standby mode I can’t really say.  I have owned amps that consume 20 watts or more at idle. That can add up over time so personally I turn my stuff off. But I’ve never owned a mega expensive amp, so my experience may not be applicable.  In this industry there are many specious ideas that are spread around, shared and reinforced. Stay skeptical. If you’ve got a really expensive amp, and want it to last decades, try calling a service center to get opinion.