Topmusicanswers
Tube Life Span Preamp Tubes are generally at their best 2 - 3 years. Power Tubes are generally at their best 1 - 1.5 years. Rectifier Tubes are generally at their best 3 - 5+ years.
- How do I know if my preamp tubes are bad?
- Do preamp tubes go bad?
- Do preamp tubes need to be replaced?
- How do you know when to replace preamp tubes?
How do I know if my preamp tubes are bad?
Preamp Tubes.
Preamp tubes usually cause problems through noise or microphonics. If noise, you will hear hiss, crackling, popping or similar issues. If you hear squeal, hum or feedback, it is typically a microphonic tube. Noise from microphonic tubes will typically increase with a volume increase.
Do preamp tubes go bad?
Most times, it is so gradual, that you don't notice, till you install, new tubes. Sovteks usually last for 1-3 years, depending on how much you play them.
Do preamp tubes need to be replaced?
You should replace them when they are dead. There is no set rule for how long they last, but in general, they last longer than power tubes. Maybe twice as long or better life expectancy for power tubes.
How do you know when to replace preamp tubes?
Using a tube tester may or may not tell you if you need a replacement. The best approach is to buy a new set of tubes, and install them. If they don't sound a lot better, put in the old ones and suck every bit of life out of them.
