Tube microphonics

Just because a tube pings if you tap it does not mean it will sound bad.  Mild microphonics is not a problem.  I’ve heard tube trials where the best sounding tubes happen to be microphonic (the tubes were 310A’s).

Just because a tube pings if you tap it does not mean it will sound bad. Mild microphonics is not a problem. I’ve heard tube trials where the best sounding tubes happen to be microphonic (the tubes were 310A’s).

this is very true, and an important point to note in any discussion about tube microphonics in a hifi use context

thanks for reminding us @larryi !!

@tattooedtrackman 

I know this is kind of backwoods, but then again I live in Vermont.

If I had your beautiful setup, here is what I would do before moving your heavy amps around.  @jjss49 if you think this is a bad idea please chime in.

With your preamp, amp and CD player on, I would set the preamp to CD mode.  I would turn my preamp up to about 1/10th volume (any VERY low setting).  I would GENTLY tap on the top of the preamp cover, then CD player cover, and then sides of the amps.  If I did not hear the dreaded (thump) or a tube rush sound I would repeat this, increasing the preamp volume, in small increments until I was at about one half volume.  This should take in total about 25 seconds.

If you do not hear a "thump" through your speakers when taping on your units I would say you have nothing to worry about regarding microphonics.

In my layman's way of explaining it, microphonics are the result of anything vibrating a tube sensitive to microphonics, whether by picking up speaker vibrations, taping the top of the unit having the microphonic tube or any other movement.

"Someone told me on another site that if I move the amps beside the speakers and not in front of them , my system will improve immensely."

Oh brother... to much audio internet info.

Not saying a tube can become microphonic, but that looks like perfect example of A.N.

I’d stay away from audio forums and just enjoy your excellent gear.

Edit-It's a free exercise to move them, so try it. Everything in audiophoolery is YMMV.

Edit-It's a free exercise to move them, so try it.

Agree 100% in general, and while OP carried them up a flight of stairs, they do weigh 170 lbs each.  And I am pretty sure the more delicate tubes weren't in them as they are now.