Reliability issues with VTL amps/pre-amps

i have owned the same amp for 2 years with no problems, how old is your amp? Also does it have both triode and tetrode switch?What tubes do you use. I use NOS fatboy tubes from the 60's.Tell what tubes you use so i never use them in this amp, thanks. Ps How often do you bias the tubes...mine hols bias for at least 3 months or longer....

I have two pair of VTL 750's, meaning I have 48 6550 tubes to contend with.

I have lost tubes and with that the large fuse behind the screw plug on the rear of the amp. No damage to the unit other than fuse and I'm into my 5th year with these.

I think VTL amps are among the most reliable and best sounding of all the big amps. If you want to keep them reliable be sure bias is right and tubes are suitable. I don't know about your ST-85, but the VTL 450, 750 and 1250 all run very reliably with Wing C 6550.

Hi. I am in my 7th or 8th year using my VTL MB450s (and I bought them used). They continue to be fine. Because I do not get enough hours on mine, I may not have the problems others have had, but so far, other than a couple of blown tubes after 4-5yrs, I have not had any issues. I use mine in triode almost exclusively.

I own VTL 125 mono block amps that are 11 years old never a blown tube . I had a on / off switch go bad a few years ago sent to VTL for repair and has worked great ever since . My amps get use just about every day for the past 11 years I like em and they sound great . Marc