[sdiy] outlet as variac? calling all EEs...

[harry]

There are two good uses... reforming electrolytic capacitors... which can be
done
with no tubes in the amp.  MOST times... electrolytics that need "reforming"
would be
better off with replacing !!!

After amp repairs... running the voltage up slowly while monitoring the AC
current can
give an indication that SOMETHING is still wrong (hidden) in the amp. Turn off
immediately and check again.  The lower voltage and the fault current might be
small enough not to cause BIG fire !!!

Some guitarists like to run the voltage down so the amp distorts. Some run all
the tubes
down... some separate the power output tubes and run those down... sometimes to
a voltage lower than the driving circuit.

If Eric has his ears on (?) he'd be better informed than me as to the possible
outcomes
of using tubes this way.  I think with a lot of care you CAN do this safely, but
often that
isn't how it works out.

H^)   harry

Alex Dickey wrote:

> > But in any case, can it be a good thing to run ANY
> > electronics at a voltage
> > other
> > than the designed voltage? ANYTHING could happen with biassing.
> > I wouldn't dream of putting a variac on an amp,except for a
> > minute or so.
>
> okay, so this is interesting.  word on the street is, leo fender never did
> the variac tango either.  so what's the point then?  is it really necessary?
>
> alex