There are different kinds of microphones in music production and other areas that require capturing of audio signals.
Condenser microphones for example are used in music recording because of their ability to pick sound with all of its nuance….
While you have dynamic microphones that are mainly used for stage performances and pick up of loud sounds.
This post will discuss tube mics…specifically how long tubes can actually last on a tube microphone because this is important to know if you own or are looking to buy one of these kinds of mics.
With that said, How long do microphone tubes last?
Some microphone tubes can last from 5 years to over a decade while others can’t even last for more than 5000 hours, but this depends on a lot of things such as use, brand of the mic, handling and other things. Most older models of tube Microphones can last for a very long if they’re well cared for…Certain newer mics are more susceptible to damage.
Factors that affect how long microphone tubes can last
There are many things that contribute to the life span of microphone tubes and it helps to know these things because you can use them to judge your own microphone.
You can also consider these factors when looking to get your tubes replaced or when simply looking to buy a brand new tube microphone.
With that said, let’s discuss each of these factors.
Grade of the tube
The physical characteristics of the tubes themselves have a huge impact on how long they can last.
Tubes made with weak material will most likely only keep you going for a limited amount of time.
On the other hand tubes made with good quality material can last you for decades without having to worry about replacing them in a short period of time.
So you should pay attention to this when choosing to buy a tube mic.
Use
Another factor that is quite key in the ultimate lifespan of microphone tubes is the use to which the microphone is being subjected.
If you’re using the microphone heavily for example everyday for hours…this can have an impact on the life span of the tubes.
The mode of use is also key because the more you use the mic heavily for long extended periods, the more it is likely to your tubes will last only for limited amount of time.
It’s not all the time that your tubes will just stop working, sometimes you’ll just notice a change in the way that they sound.
This may then force you to purchase a new one.
Think of how a tube mic might sound without it being warmed up…
You’re likely going to encounter the inability of the microphone to respond to frequencies accurately and well enough, once the tubes start to deteriorate.
However, some tube mics can withstand a heavy workload, you just need to find a more premium one.
Brand
The brand of the tubes in the microphone which is usually also the brand of the microphone has a huge bearing on the lifespan of the tubes.
You’ll basically want to use and buy a microphone made by a good brand with a good reputation.
You should use this as a guide when looking to buy a tube mic because going for cheaper low standard mics can cause problems in the future.
Which is why you need to get a good microphone from a reputable brand.
Country of origin
Tube Microphones made in certain Eastern European countries don’t really last very long and you may look to change your tubes in less than 5 years.
The best thing you can do is avoid microphones from such regions.
Most microphones these days are just the assembly of low quality parts put together and sold to turn a profit.
Which is why you need to do research into the origin of the microphone and find a reliable merchant from whom you can get one.
Instructions
You also have to take time to read the microphone specifications from the manufacturer.
You’ll get the necessary usage specifications that allow for durability. Most people skip this step and just roll the dice and hope for the best.
But there are key details in specifications that contribute to how long tubes would ultimately last.
For example, voltage and power specifications are two things that you need to know so you can use your microphone more efficiently without risking potential damage.
Handling
How you handle your microphone will tell a lot about how long you’ll stay with it.
Not giving your mic the proper care to have it last is not the way to go.
Tube Microphones require you take into account the tubes them selves.
If microphone tubes aren’t handled well, they’ll most likely not last that long.
Room conditions
Room conditions matter a lot.
Without the right room conditions, you run the risk of damaging your microphone tubes.
Maintenance
How you maintain your microphone also has a lot of impact on how long the tubes last.
Yearly checks can be very helpful and fundamental in ensuring that your microphone is working the way its supposed to.
You can consult with microphone experts that examine the part of the microphone and give you some advice as we as a ball park estimate the tube lifespan.
