Fender tube replacement. When?

Jeff Hyman · From: West Virginia, USA

What is the expected life of the "tubes" in a Fender Deluxe? Are there any identifiable sounds or failures I can look for... or is it good practice to replace the tubes every (lets say) year? Can a tube be replaced in the middle of a set when the amp is hot? Any feedback is appreciated.

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Jeff Hyman
jeffshobud@yahoo.com
Sho~Bud LDG
WEBB and Fender Deluxe
www.HatCreekCountry.com
www.cactus.com

Blake Hawkins · From: Florida

Well, lets see. I play a 1953 Fender Tweed Deluxe.
It has two 6v6GT, a 5Y3GT, and two 6SC7 tubes.
They last for years. I replace the 6V6 tubes when they start to distort.
The 6SC7s when they get noisy, and the 5Y3 almost never.
Since I am a tech and have a shop, I check the voltages about twice a year and may replace a tube if it is getting weak.
To give some numbers, my 6V6's last about 5 years, the 6SC7's about 8 and the 5Y3 about 10.
Your milage may vary.
You are probably talking about a later model
Deluxe.
Can you replace a tube during a set?
Yes as long as you have a rag or something to protect your fingers when you pull the hot tube out.
Of course, you should unplug the power cord while you are doing this.
When I played gigs, I usually carried a complete set of spares because you never know when a tube will decide to quit.
Blake

Jeff Hyman · From: West Virginia, USA

Blake,

Thanks for the info.

Jeff

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