Non tube gear, like transistors, capacitors might benefit the most! I usually keep the system on overnight when possible, longer time on does make for warmer sound. Living in TX, with thunderstorms rolling through this time of year, unplugging everything when threatening weather is on tap, is also a way of life here. Though I’m a fan of 24/7 on when practical. I’ve read that transistors for instance take 24 hours to reach stasis under power. Controversial subject maybe, but I’m a believer. I’ve heard the SQ difference enough times to believe it.

Agree with all You wrote. I got class A amp and its a big spender, so I turn it of overnight, same as tube preamp. First 30min when turned on, that amp sounds like crap, but hour or so later its a stairway to heaven.

Tube gear may be an exception. Not just the power use, but also the shortened life expectancy. Conversely, reduced off/discharge, on/recharge cycles may enhance capacitor life.

Probably an hour warmup is perfect for tubes?


Rick

Supermario wrote: Because sound is better when amps are warmed up and they use only around 5W at idle.

In your opinion and in a subjective sense perhaps. I'm not sure - of course I could be wrong - you would find any objective measurement data to support that claim. Also, have you tried a proper blind test to prove - to yourself, not necessarily anyone else - there is difference?

If you talk to folks in the electronics repair industry I think you'll find that by-and-large the consensus is that leaving electronics on 24/7 isn't good for the health/longevity of the particular component. IMO, electronics need some rest, similar to the way people do. There is also the small additional cost of extra and unnecessary (IMO) power consumption which granted is somewhat moot.

Also, even if there were a sound improvement and assuming you could/do hear it, how much time from fully off does it take to get to "optimum" temperature? Who really knows? Probably just a matter of minutes so again leaving on all the time makes no sense, IMO.

The aforementioned stated, their your speakers so do as pleased.

Leaving amp on for 15 hours in a day should put less stress on it than having it switching on/off several times, as it will do with any pause in listening for more than 30min.

rjohn79395 wrote: Tube gear may be an exception. Not just the power use, but also the shortened life expectancy. Conversely, reduced off/discharge, on/recharge cycles may enhance capacitor life.

Probably an hourr warmup is perfect for tubes?


Rick

Tube preamp is OK after 30min, but A class amp needs more time.