[GoHoos]

I've noticed a lot of people putting tube amps on top of their CD players. Would the micro-vibrations from the CD player affect the tube amp? Microphonics? Any insights from tube experts?

 

[audiowize]

All tubes are microphonic to some degree, but this is unlikely to be a huge issue. When in doubt, borrow a scope and look at the output of the tube amp with the CD player playing but the amp switched to a different input. Having just built a custom tubed CD player, I found that neither the CD drive nor the fan I used in the case caused any issues with the 6AV11 tube I used.

Weight and heat are another story...

 

[Uncle Erik]

I'd be a lot more concerned with heat buildup than anything. Tube amps run warm, so the CD player will have a tough time ventilating heat.

Microphonics can be a problem, but it often gets overstated and overkill solutions are applied. Several times I've tapped the bookcase my amps are on with a woodworking mallet. That definitely introduces vibrations, but I didn't hear any change while I was listening. Since the bookcase is generally vibration free, I don't think there's any need to spend more money.

 

[jellojoe]

I got two tube amps on top of my CD player. Doesn't seem to be a problem. I only turn on one amp at any given time though.

 

[omegaman]

Mine sits on top off my CD player, never had a problem. If space is a problem for you I wouldn't worry about it.

 

[cavedave]

I have set my tube amp on top of my cd player and can tell you for a fact it sounds better when sitting beside it and not on it. But I have also set solid state amps on it and found the sound better beside it on its own. May be a lot of reasons for this I only know it to be true. More so with the tube amp. Much fuller sounding better base cleaner highs. Try it you will like it.