6bq5 -- I can't speak to other tube makes or gear, but in the case of ARC, the factory recommends that power tubes in more current models, such as 6550Cs, be replaced every 2000 hours. These particluar tubes bias at 65 mV. ARC has replaced the 6550C in some amps with a new tube, the KT-120, which is supposed to be more robust. Time will tell if service life will be extended. However, in the case of pre's and other input gear, such as phono pre's and CDPs, the more recent models use 6922s and 6H30s. ARC advises that these audio/signal tubes be replaced at 4-5,000 hrs. Certainly in the case of ARC gear, I am not aware of any tube, at least in current models, that has a 10,000 service life. Perhaps, longer tube life might be found in gear from other companies.
I think the question at hand is whether there are suggestions or recommendations out there in audio-land that can help extend, or at least not shorten, tube life -- whatever the factory's recommendations might be. I think you put at least 2 recomendations out there in your post. Thank you. Your advice makes a lot of sense.
I think the question at hand is whether there are suggestions or recommendations out there in audio-land that can help extend, or at least not shorten, tube life -- whatever the factory's recommendations might be. I think you put at least 2 recomendations out there in your post. Thank you. Your advice makes a lot of sense.