2. amps-preamps
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Break in period

I have just acquired the Conrad Johnson CT5 preamp and CJ LP70S power amp. Would appreciate inputs /advice of fellow a'goners regd optimal break in period and is the break in period dependent on playback volume or amount of
gain. The reason I ask is coz a Stereophile review of the CT5(July 2006 ?)mentioned that the preamp was left in continous play mode for a week, that translates to 150 hrs.Given that i listen max 2hrs/day and more on weekends, that translates to a break in period of nearly 2 1/2 months !!
Have huge issues leaving the system running 24/7 coz of erratic power supply and neighbour's privacy etc
Would appreciate any/all advice
Cheers
128x128sunnyboy1956
jbello
115 posts
 
The last three pieces of CJ I owned did not make it to 150 hours. Forget break in, they all broke. Shipped back to Virginia at my expense.
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
if it sounds fine, don't worry about break in. critics have loaners for as long as some folks own components. cj always sounds great, broken in or not.
uraniumcommittee
60 posts
 
Tubes don't "break in" but may change slightly as they age. Everything does.
pauly
1,012 posts
 
Most components require some break in. Film capacitors will break-in over 100 to 400 hours. Resistors, tubes and the cabling will also break-in or settle as they are exposed to current.

I wouldn’t worry too much about it, just run the amps and enjoy. You’ll notice a slight improvement as the components settle in – no big deal. I wouldn’t bother leaving gear on 24/7.

Regards
Paul
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
Cycling on and off actually helps to form the electrolytic in the power capacitors. I have never had any problems as a result of turning off equipment when finished listening to it. This on/off fear thing is way out of control. Save electricity, reduce the chances that something will hit the power grid and fry your stuff, and turn your gear off when left unattended.
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