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Did I blow up?

R

rh5000

New Member
I just turned on my Chronus Magnum (I) and the V2 tube (KT120) flickered and lit up purple and the left speaker popped pretty loud (not deafening). I turned it off really quickly and there was some smoke coming from around the tube. I unplugged everything and about 5 minutes later turned it back on and the tube immediately turned purple but no smoking and didn't seem to be flickering...I turned it right back off.

Is this a tube issue or something else? I'm a total noob to tubes. I just thought it sounded like something I would like a few years ago and found it used and have been using it ever since. Very Happy, no issues...until today.

So, not sure if I just need to buy new tubes or if I need to take it to a shop.

Thanks for your help. If there is a separate "I blew up my stuff" forum I should have posted in, let me know...I tried to search but came up with just discussions of The Chronus and purple guitar amps.
 
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The best-case scenario is that the tube failed and took out an accompanying resistor or two. You'll need to take it to a shop for repair. It's probably nothing too serious, but don't attempt to use it untilm you've had it checked out.
 
What he said. Usually not a major problem, just the cost of the tube. Resistors are cheap. Not the first person to blow a tube and have it smoke a resistor in the process.
 
I have dealt with that once or twice with Rogue Cronus Magnum amps, over the years.

Usually, if anything, it will be a blown screen resistor. It's on the circuit board near the tube socket. And/or a blown tube fuse.

I've never had one that needed more than that, and the requisite new output tube. Those things are pretty ruggedly built.

If the tubes have any significant age on them- I'd be inclined to replace both in that channel. It will work with just one, but probably will have less distortion with both being matched.

Though it may work without changing the screen resistor- I would be inclined to find and test the screen resistor, just to make sure it's still in spec. Given that there was smoke, there's always a chance it will now be degraded. This is something a tech should be able to test, and repair if needed, in very little time.

Regards,
Gordon.
 
Hey,
Thanks for your replies. I've been sick all week so I'm sleeping a LOT and not checking this very often. You have confirmed what I guessed with my limited knowledge. I didn't want to just buy a $70 tube and stick it in there an have it blow again. Think I will take your advice and buy two...maybe 4. I don't know how old the tubes are. I listen to it a couple of times a week, at least, and I bought it used so...who knows. Now I have to find someone in the Phoenix, AZ area to look at it. Thanks again! I really appreciate that there is a helpful community out here.

Ron
 
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