Hoffman Amplifiers Tube Amplifier Forum

Amp Stuff => AmpTools/Tech Tips => Topic started by: Soulchief on November 03, 2025, 10:26:49 am

Title: Soft starting an amp question
Post by: Soulchief on November 03, 2025, 10:26:49 am

Hello all,

I have a few Mesa MkIV Amps (solid state recs) that haven't been turned on in 2-3 years which all worked fine last.

The tubes have all tested good.

I have a Variac and Light-Bulb Limiter and just want to carefully restart them.


- Questions:

- any recommended easy methods ?

- Can Tubes be left in place or must be removed ?

- If tubes must be out, remove Preamp Tubes as well ?

- I've read just start at 80-90V and go up until 117V with tubes in.. ?


Thanks for any help

Title: Re: Soft starting an amp question
Post by: acheld on November 03, 2025, 10:43:38 am

Personally, I'd just turn them on.    These are not relics from a barn . . .

But there's no harm in a dim bulb or a variac.