AudioPhewl
500+ Head-Fier
- Joined
- Jun 20, 2008
- Posts
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- 12
Hi all.
Am looking at buying the Stax SRS-4040II package - SR404 earspeakers, and the SRM-006II energiser. But I'm unfamiliar with the "quirks" of valve gear, and have a few questions...
1. I use my headphones virtually every day, for several hours. My DAC, CDP and amplifier are left powered-up 24/7 and have been so for many years now. I can't do this with a valve amplifier, can I?
2. Tube life. How long can I expect the stock tubes to last? I don't expect any firm dates, but I'd love to know whether I'd be looking at swapping them out after 6 months or 6 years...
3. Replacement tube cost. Are they difficult to replace(I'm handy enough with mechanics and soldering). Do they simply "pop" into place, or is it a more detailed task? How much do replacement tubes cost?
4. Would I be better off buying the earspeakers by themselves, and using a DIY or aftermarket amplifier? Total package cost is ~£1000, or £600 more than the bare earspeakers. What would I be looking at buying in terms of aftermarket gear, at this price point?
Thanks for any advice, and apologies for all the questions.
~Phewl.
Am looking at buying the Stax SRS-4040II package - SR404 earspeakers, and the SRM-006II energiser. But I'm unfamiliar with the "quirks" of valve gear, and have a few questions...
1. I use my headphones virtually every day, for several hours. My DAC, CDP and amplifier are left powered-up 24/7 and have been so for many years now. I can't do this with a valve amplifier, can I?
2. Tube life. How long can I expect the stock tubes to last? I don't expect any firm dates, but I'd love to know whether I'd be looking at swapping them out after 6 months or 6 years...
3. Replacement tube cost. Are they difficult to replace(I'm handy enough with mechanics and soldering). Do they simply "pop" into place, or is it a more detailed task? How much do replacement tubes cost?
4. Would I be better off buying the earspeakers by themselves, and using a DIY or aftermarket amplifier? Total package cost is ~£1000, or £600 more than the bare earspeakers. What would I be looking at buying in terms of aftermarket gear, at this price point?
Thanks for any advice, and apologies for all the questions.
~Phewl.