Noob question about tube amps

[funky_uncle]

I've noticed that on some amps part of the tube(s) are sticking out of the chassis. Is that because they get too hot? I would be nervous about breaking them.

 

[winders]

On some amps the tubes stick all the way out of the chassis. I wouldn't be nervous about it unless you play ball in the same room or you have kids running around that have not been taught boundaries.

 

[redkingjoe]

My granddaughter, age 18 months, took the tubes out from the amp and watch them closely and carefully. Luckily, my wife Discovered that and get the tubes back before any of them was broken.

 

[funky_uncle]

A tube can be replaced, but I'd be more worried about the kid getting burns. Weird that they're not at least covered by some sort of cage on so many amplifiers.

 

[BunnyNamedCraig]

Yeah I would not want an 18 month any where near it. For fear of them getting burned on the hot tubes, or if they broke it and got cut ect.

Like he said, you could possibly get a cage around them for when she comes around

 

[tomb]

I've noticed that on some amps part of the tube(s) are sticking out of the chassis. Is that because they get too hot? I would be nervous about breaking them.

There are several practical reasons:

1. Heat can be a huge issue, especially with true, high-voltage tubes and/or power tubes. At the same time, tubes can be very difficult to heat sink, due to the properties of glass, the large surface area, and proximity to the socket and pins (danger of shorting).
2. Besides #1, another huge issue is tube rolling. One of the joys of owning a tube amplifier is trying out numerous other tube brands and types for the nuanced differences in sound. Having to disassemble an amp with completely enclosed tubes is a huge inconvenience for the customer and may expose him/her to unsafe conditions.
3. Most customers who purchase tube amplifiers these days (when tubes are an anachronism) prefer to have the tubes exposed. They emit their own light. This can create an atmosphere that enhances the listening experience for many.

A note to some of the other posters - anything made of glass should be kept out of reach of youngsters, anyway.