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SUPPORT FORUMS FOR ZKITS >> ZKIT 1 Support forum >> Can I leave my ZKit1 amp on 24/7 ?
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Message started by Alan H on 10/03/09 at 20:10:30

Title: Can I leave my ZKit1 amp on 24/7 ?
Post by Alan H on 10/03/09 at 20:10:30

From the HomeTheatreReview SE84C review linked to from the Review section here

"Decware recommends you leave the SE84C+ on 24/7"

The amps are related - so does this also apply to my kit1 ?

Title: Re: Can I leave my ZKit1 amp on 24/7 ?
Post by Alan H on 10/05/09 at 23:22:04

Steve?

Title: Re: Can I leave my ZKit1 amp on 24/7 ?
Post by Steve Deckert on 10/06/09 at 02:48:17

Hi Alan,

Actually that was a miss quote on their part. I've never officially recommended leaving an amplifier on 24/7 simply because of safety issues when you're not home. For example, if something WERE to short out, there might be a chance of fire. I especially would be leery of recommending it on kits, or amps that we didn't build ourselves.

Now, as far as the amp is concerned, nothing will happen to it nor would there be any ill effects from leaving it on 24/7. Many customers do it and have consequently recommended it to others on various forums. As a test I ran an SE84C 24/7 for almost 6 years before one of the tired output tubes finally failed.

Steve

Title: Re: Can I leave my ZKit1 amp on 24/7 ?
Post by Alan H on 10/06/09 at 21:33:35

Thanks Steve.

I've noticed that the power transformer, despite being on top, gets hot. Sounds like this does not affect it's lifespan.

Having drilled a row of ventilation holes in my kit I'm reasonably confident it will not overheat.

So maybe not 24/7, but will not worry about extended periods where it is left on.

Title: Re: Can I leave my ZKit1 amp on 24/7 ?
Post by Lon on 10/08/09 at 17:07:38

Allen,

Your tube life IS shortened if left on for a long time. Whenever I leave mine on for a long spell, and I often do, I run a cd on repeat and have the volume down really low. . . .

Title: Re: Can I leave my ZKit1 amp on 24/7 ?
Post by Alan H on 10/09/09 at 11:25:37

OK ... my gut feeling was that tube life would be shortened. Though presumably like a lightbulb, a lot of on/off is not good either.

Curious Lon - why does having a signal passing through the tubes make a difference?

Title: Re: Can I leave my ZKit1 amp on 24/7 ?
Post by Lon on 10/09/09 at 18:13:15

I don't know---but that's what I've been told over the years. It may not be true?