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Safe way to change cables with tube amp on...

Couldn't figure out a way to phrase my question so here's the longer version.
I have an older ARC D250 amp and was told that one shouldn't remove the speaker cables with the amp on. Is there a way to acomplish this as I hate to power down the amp when trying different cable combinations.
Would a resistor across another set of taps work on the amp?
alun
warnerwh
539 posts
 
If I were you I wouldn't try it. Too many times a tiny error has ended up in a blown amp. It's better to just power it down. One tiny mistake and you'll wish you never thought of leaving it on.
gregm
3,409 posts
 
I would strongly second Warner's caution above. You shouldn't leave a tube amp without a load and using a resistor across the taps is very prone to mistakes -- remember a resistor would have to be connected to the live taps!!
mr_hosehead
210 posts
 
Go ahead - try it! No guts, no glory...

But, before you do anything like that, make sure you have already ordered your new amp. 'Nuff said.
eldartford
4,262 posts
 
The resistor would theoretically avoid the no-load condition that might damage the amp. However, human error while you are messing around with the wires remains a hazard. Why risk it?
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