tube storage

Norm Apter
Norm Apter Posts: 1,036
edited July 2009 in 2 Channel Audio
Seem to be a lot of tube threads recently -- let me add one more.

I have a question for you tube heads who presumably have extra tubes on hand.

First, I'm wondering if there are particular conditions in which you store your extra (not currently used) tubes. Anything to keep in mind?

Second, anyone know if they degrade over time (when not in use)? I've been thinking about getting an extra couple of tubes, but only have one device that takes exactly one tube so even purchasing just one would automatically lead to an overabundance in my case.

Thanks,
Norm
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Comments

  • mmadden28
    mmadden28 Posts: 4,283
    edited July 2009
    Norm Apter wrote: »
    ..anyone know if they degrade over time (when not in use)?...

    I'm going to SWAG and say no. Figuring that vintage tubes are all the rage and all.
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  • george daniel
    george daniel Posts: 12,096
    edited July 2009
    I keep mine in a large cigar box (wooden/airtight?), mainly cause I don't smoke cigars,,,as far a life,,some of mine are 40-50 years old,and still test as new,I'm guessing that the "vacuum" is they key,and as long as it's not compromised,who knows how long they will remain/good.
    JC approves....he told me so. (F-1 nut)
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  • AudioGenics
    AudioGenics Posts: 2,567
    edited July 2009
    manufacturing problems in the tube is the cause of most failures.

    Out-gassing and seal leakage are problems in tubes,
    porous anodes and imperfect glass to metal seals allow gas to enter the vacuum
    as previously stated
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  • mhardy6647
    mhardy6647 Posts: 33,804
    edited July 2009
    They don't degrade over time unless gravity is involved ;-)

    I keep mine in the basement. An old tube caddy is a handy storage container.
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  • rubin
    rubin Posts: 565
    edited July 2009
    I keep my spare tubes in a drawer, in their origional boxes
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