TDR Relay with Tube Rectifier

I didn't want to hijack the ST-120 Problem post.

For reasons I don't remember I thought the TDR Relay was to let the output tubes "warm" a bit. I have the TDR, and like to use a tube rectifier; and so far so good.

Would it be reasonable to remove the TDR to continue using a tube rectifier? I don't have a problem replacing a rec. tube now and then but is it possible that with the tube rec. and TDR it could cause damage elsewhere?

Jimme

If you are going to bypass your TDR, I would suggest doing the "Yellow Sheet Mod" at the same time. I think there is a sticky on that.

FWIW, I have been running with a tube rectifier and TDR for about 7 years. I started with the Weber solid state rectifiers but they kept getting hot and burning up. I have had the same Tung-Sol tube rectifier running for about 4 years now...at least 2000 hours on it. Since it had been so good to me I ordered a couple more from Jim McShane about 3 years ago but haven't had to change it yet. I am running at about 53mA per tube. Running KT-120s and driving some 100 dB Klipsch speakers so the amp isn't working very hard, even at moderately loud volume.

I too have a TDR in my ST120 and use a tube rectifier (that's how it came). No problems that I'm aware of.

Bob, what would we expect to see as far as negative effects from using a TDR with a tube rectifier.

As far as I know the TDR first gives current to the filaments allowing them to warm up a bit and 20 seconds later the plate voltage is applied.

I've been using a tube rectifier with a TDR since getting my ST-120 in mid-2016. No problems until I saw this thread, so it must be a jinx. Yesterday I turned on the amp and the rectifier put on a light show. I quickly turned off the amp. The fuse had blown so I replaced that and put in a Weber copper top that I had purchased to use as a spare. Thankfully it started up and played fine, but after reading so many comments about the heat of that "tube" I'd like to use another tube rectifier (I have a couple of spares but used the Weber instead) but am hesitant because of Bob's warning.

I did write to Bob when this thread first appeared and asked if I should take the TDR out of the circuit since I was using a tube rectifier and he said if it is working okay then just leave it in. So I guess I jinxed it by asking, haha.

It was my understanding that the TDR also helped with short cycles on the amp. I thought for sure that after I bragged about my rectifier lasting so long that I would have fireworks when I turned the amp on this weekend but...and here I go pressing my luck again...the amp powered right up and played for about 8 hours yesterday while I was working around the house. I have had no issues and will leave my amp as it is.

That's exactly the GFIC device I use.

It saved my amp at least once.

Question - I replaced my blown rectifier tube with a Weber solid state but I've read mixed comments about them, some saying they got too hot and fizzled out. Can that cause damage to the rest of the amp? I'm wondering if it would be safer to use another standard rectifier tube (I have a spare Genalex GZ34).