TUBES + WATER?

[discolightning]

i was arguing with a guitarist a while back, and the argument was about tubes. He was pissed because his amp had collected some condensation while sitting outside after a gig, and he was sure the tubes would be damaged. I insisted that they would be okay as long as they weren't shaken violently, or turned on while wet. I tried to explain that tubes are like light bulbs. Water on the inside would be really bad. tutt

Is this right? I tried looking for tube care/maintenance/handling on the web. couldn't find much quickly. I know the debate will come up again, and I'd like to be prepared.

thanks fellas.

[dementedchord]

oh my.... a guitarist that really dont know shit about his equipment???? say it aint so....

[Matt Syson]

Hi
The inside of a valve is a vacuum (plus the metal bits) and if this was not true it would not work.
There may be a distinct possibility of damaging the amp if the valve sockets and other components are wet and it is then switched on but if it is allowed to dry out gently (in a warm room for a while) it will not suffer.
Pouring cold liquid (water / beer) on a valve that is already hot, especially the rectifier and power valves may well crack the glass and let air in.
Matt S

[discolightning]

well, it was after a gig....and you know what singers drink to loosen up, right?

another thing i've debated with him is whether there is any damage to tubes if they're left in the van for a few days in the summer/winter. i pointed out that when we're on tour, the equipment is under no climate control. The real risk of leaving equipment in the van is theft if you're in a bad area.

i'm the drummer....why am i always right???

[FossilTooth]

It's probably fine.

While any liquid that leaves a residue could plausibly cause the tubes to heat unevenly which could potentially lead to shorter life expectancy. I suppose distilled water, such as condensation from surrounding air wouldn't leave residue.

I don't know. I say, wipe the sucker off, let it dry completely, and fire it up.

[discolightning]

or i could fire the guitarist!