Tung-Sol.com:: FAQs How long, under normal use, should I expect my power tubes to last?

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FAQs

Question:
How long, under normal use, should I expect my power tubes to last?
Answer:
The life expectancy of power tubes depends on a number of factors:
How often and how loud do you play?
What style of music do you play?
What kind of amplifier do you have? Some amplifiers run the tubes harder than others.

In general, the average steadily gigging club musician can expect power tubes in a typical amplifier to last from six months to about a year. Touring professionals will change tubes more often. It is very common for the top acts to have the amplifiers completely checked out and have the tubes replaced just prior to going on tour. They usually also have back-up amplifiers, extra tubes, and may even take a technician on tour to service the amplifiers as needed. The musicians who play for their own entertainment at home or only play occasional gigs may actually get several years of service from a set of power tubes.

As you develop your playing schedule, you will generally begin to notice when the amplifier seems to not be sounding like it should and will take it in to the technician to have the tubes checked and/or replaced at regular intervals. For the average gigging musician, an amplifier checkup every six months is a good rule of thumb.

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