Safety
I could tell my parents hated me. My bath toys were a toaster and a radio.
– Rodney Dangerfield
Seriously! Tube audio gear uses high voltage components. At MidCentury Sound we take a high degree of care in our restorations. All gear is carefully inspected, and degraded or deteriorated insulation is replaced. Unless otherwise requested, modern line cords with polarized plugs are installed. However, it is important to emphasize, high voltage and water do not get along… add a human to that equation and no good will come of it. If you plan to use your gear near water, such as on the kitchen counter or by the pool, make sure to use a GFCI outlet (see note below). Now, we’ve all seen the little tag that says “No User Serviceable Parts Inside”. Your gear may or may not come with one on the back. In short, taking the back / cover off of the gear can get you a visit from the EMT’s and / or a trip to the emergency room, or even the “Great Gig in the Sky”, so don’t do it. Tube audio gear generates heat, please allow for adequate ventilation. A suggested minimum would be one inch around the top, sides and back; more if the gear is a power amplifier. Remember, the only person that can cure stupid is you, and if you’re not careful, you might just do it in a permanent and non-reversable way!
(Note – This is not intended to suggest that you use high voltage gear near water or the suitability of our gear to be used near water.)