Hi all.
I noticed something when looking at the preamp tubes in my WA2 tonite. I purchased these about a month ago (Philips Miniwatt E88CC gold pin) - they were NOS, unused, fully tested, from a reputable source. They sound glorious. Both of them have the silver cap at the top of the tube, but I noticed that one of them - underneath that silver cap - is a little smokey. It is quite dark (almost black)...similar to when you hold a candle next to some glass and that black layer of soot forms on it.
It does not seem to be affecting the sound in any way (crackling, noise, imbalance, hum)…..they sound fantastic. But I wanted to double check if anyone knows perhaps what this may be. It was not like this when they arrived (both were clear) and it seems this built up with use over time.
I am primarily asking if this is something common, or something to worry about…..that is, if it may be a sign of potential tube failure and that I should take them out to prevent damage to the amp and attached components. I've includes some photos below.
Thanks in advance,
X
Clear:
Sooty:
Both
I noticed something when looking at the preamp tubes in my WA2 tonite. I purchased these about a month ago (Philips Miniwatt E88CC gold pin) - they were NOS, unused, fully tested, from a reputable source. They sound glorious. Both of them have the silver cap at the top of the tube, but I noticed that one of them - underneath that silver cap - is a little smokey. It is quite dark (almost black)...similar to when you hold a candle next to some glass and that black layer of soot forms on it.
It does not seem to be affecting the sound in any way (crackling, noise, imbalance, hum)…..they sound fantastic. But I wanted to double check if anyone knows perhaps what this may be. It was not like this when they arrived (both were clear) and it seems this built up with use over time.
I am primarily asking if this is something common, or something to worry about…..that is, if it may be a sign of potential tube failure and that I should take them out to prevent damage to the amp and attached components. I've includes some photos below.
Thanks in advance,
X
Clear:
Sooty:
Both