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What are the common issues that you've experienced with using different tube amps? [message #99486]

Fri, 05 June 2026 13:20

Kurt
Messages: 31
Registered: December 2025

Baron

I would like to know various challenges that some of us have had while using different tube amps. Currently, I make use of Evo 400, Mclntosh MA352 hybrid, and the Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum III.

I am the type that likes having different options when it comes to vacuum tube amps, but I've experienced different challenges while using these amps. For example, I always feel an increase in heat in the room when I switch from Rogue to Evo 400. That meant that I am always careful of the one to use depending on weather conditions.

So, I would like to know if anyone here run multiple tube amps and what issues you've encountered while using them?

Is there a good tip on how to manage heat, and how do you get along with managing running multiple amps?

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Re: What are the common issues that you've experienced with using different tube amps? [message #99487 is a reply to message #99486]

Fri, 05 June 2026 14:23

Rusty
Messages: 1452
Registered: May 2018
Location: Kansas City Missouri

Illuminati (3rd Degree)

I've only used one tube amp. But they're monoblocks. And they're OTL's, so the issue with heat in inherent with that topology. Though mitigated a good deal with the design I've used for about 20 years. But I simply don't use them in the summer. Why fight the electric bill with the AC. So I switch to my venerable old Hafler 220 I've used for 40 years. I do keep the tube amps on top of the gear cabinet. Unobstructed from anything

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Re: What are the common issues that you've experienced with using different tube amps? [message #99505 is a reply to message #99486]

Wed, 10 June 2026 13:38

Hank
Messages: 55
Registered: December 2025

Baron

I truly understand how you feel with the heat that comes with tube amps. In fact, that was the main reason that I switched from using them years ago to focus on solid-state amps.

I was never comfortable in my room because of the heat till I got a small fan that was always on when I was using the tubes. So, maybe I suggest you get a fan that you can keep in the room that can make the room cooler. I don't bother about those issues anymore because I run solid-state amps, and they give less drama, unlike tubes.

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Re: What are the common issues that you've experienced with using different tube amps? [message #99510 is a reply to message #99505]

Mon, 15 June 2026 14:48

Rusty
Messages: 1452
Registered: May 2018
Location: Kansas City Missouri

Illuminati (3rd Degree)

Well I dunno. I feel like I get the best of both with tube & SS amps. As mentioned, I run the tube amps in cooler weather, so the heat isn't a problem then. Their like space heaters in a way. A friend of mine jokes that I could use them with a rotisserie above them. And then in summer months its the SS amp. The Hafler I have does tend to run warm if I use it a while. But not like the tube amps. I like the change up with certain aspects of the sound scape from either of the two types of amplifiers too.

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Re: What are the common issues that you've experienced with using different tube amps? [message #99512 is a reply to message #99510]

Mon, 15 June 2026 15:39

Wayne Parham
Messages: 19081
Registered: January 2001

Illuminati (33rd Degree)

That is such a cool idea - Seasonal amplifier tasting - I love it!

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Re: What are the common issues that you've experienced with using different tube amps? [message #99515 is a reply to message #99510]

Tue, 16 June 2026 23:53

Kurt
Messages: 31
Registered: December 2025

Baron

Rusty wrote on Mon, 15 June 2026 14:48

Well I dunno. I feel like I get the best of both with tube & SS amps. As mentioned, I run the tube amps in cooler weather, so the heat isn't a problem then. Their like space heaters in a way. A friend of mine jokes that I could use them with a rotisserie above them. And then in summer months its the SS amp. The Hafler I have does tend to run warm if I use it a while. But not like the tube amps. I like the change up with certain aspects of the sound scape from either of the two types of amplifiers too.

Just maybe this is why I am never comfortable with tube amps during the summer period. The weather is already hot and consistent use of tube amps especially the Evo 400 worsen the heat in the room. I agree that I should find that balance between using ss amps and tube amps, but it is never easy since I am a big fan of tube amps.

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Re: What are the common issues that you've experienced with using different tube amps? [message #99541 is a reply to message #99515]

Tue, 30 June 2026 20:46

gofar99
Messages: 2040
Registered: May 2010
Location: Southern Arizona

Illuminati (5th Degree)

Hi, I understand heat...it what AC is for as it is usually pretty warm in Arizona anyhow. I have presently a quad of KT120 mono blocks powering my system. Yes they do get warm. The photo is from a while back but I think you will get the idea. /forum/index.php?t=getfile&id=3594&private=0

/forum/index.php?t=getfile&id=3594&private=0

Attachment: KT120 Cookware.jpg
(Size: 243.95KB, Downloaded 88 times)

Good Listening
Bruce

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Re: What are the common issues that you've experienced with using different tube amps? [message #99553 is a reply to message #99510]

Sat, 04 July 2026 00:30

Kurt
Messages: 31
Registered: December 2025

Baron

Rusty wrote on Mon, 15 June 2026 14:48

Well I dunno. I feel like I get the best of both with tube & SS amps. As mentioned, I run the tube amps in cooler weather, so the heat isn't a problem then. Their like space heaters in a way. A friend of mine jokes that I could use them with a rotisserie above them. And then in summer months its the SS amp. The Hafler I have does tend to run warm if I use it a while. But not like the tube amps. I like the change up with certain aspects of the sound scape from either of the two types of amplifiers too.

Oh well, this seems like what I would have to do. Use more of tube amps when the snows are out and not during the summer. I sense that is better and more convenient.

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Re: What are the common issues that you've experienced with using different tube amps? [message #99643 is a reply to message #99541]

Mon, 03 August 2026 19:50

Hank
Messages: 55
Registered: December 2025

Baron

gofar99 wrote on Tue, 30 June 2026 20:46

Hi, I understand heat...it what AC is for as it is usually pretty warm in Arizona anyhow. I have presently a quad of KT120 mono blocks powering my system. Yes they do get warm. The photo is from a while back but I think you will get the idea.

Air-conditioners certainly fix that worry about hot temperature in the room. It's such a cool idea. How much did you spend when you purchased the mono blocks?

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Re: What are the common issues that you've experienced with using different tube amps? [message #99672 is a reply to message #99643]

Sat, 08 August 2026 21:29

gofar99
Messages: 2040
Registered: May 2010
Location: Southern Arizona

Illuminati (5th Degree)

Hi, since I half own half of the company...I didn't pay anything for them. The amps in the photo were ruggedized models we used at demonstrations. Electrically they are the same as the kits. The kits at that time were around $700 less tubes. Unfortunately that even though the company still exists it is hibernating. COVID did a number on our suppliers and fabricators. To continue now the prices would have to be around double. Diy is still viable and I am happy to provide assistance with anyone who does that. (gofar99@hotmail.com)i

Good Listening
Bruce

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