2. amps-preamps
  3. 1168459093

Tube pre-amps: turn off when not in use?

I just recently purchased a BAT vk-31se - my first true tube product (aside from MF tube buffer). I normally keep all components on, day and night. Was just wondering if any of the more experienced tube users turn off their components when not in use to increase tube life.

Thanks,
Adam
adamg
nolitan
865 posts
 
for tube pre-amp-- its ok to turn off when not in use.
for solid state pre-amp-- its better to leave on all the time. These takes time to warm up.
bsmith15
29 posts
 
Since I get to listen mostly over the weekend, I turn on my pre on Friday evening and off Sunday evening. Minimizes tube loss.
adamg OP
89 posts
 
I was blissfully unaware of the cost of the tubes. It will cost me roughly $500-1,000/year (Canadian) to keep my pre running?
gunbei
2,327 posts
 
Bsmith15, when I was hot and heavy into listening to my system, especially during colder parts of the year relative to LA, I'd do exactly what you do.
gunbei
2,327 posts
 
Adamg, in my experience with 6922s in a DAC I was able to leave them on continuously for four straight years without excessive wear. When I owned a BAT VK3i its 6922s didn't seem to wear prematurely from being left on all the time. The complete opposite was true of my 6SN7 preamp which burned through expensive tubes if I left it on for too long. I am not familiar with the characteristics of the 6H30 which I believe your preamp uses.
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