Warning

Amplifiers utilize levels of voltage that may cause serious injury or bodily harm. If you are unfamiliar with the maintenance of tube amplifiers, we recommend seeking assistance from a trained amplifier technician.

Only replace tubes with the same type and specifications originally supplied with the amplifier. If you are uncertain about the correct replacement tube type to use for your amp, please contact the PRS Customer Service team for further assistance.

Changing Amplifier Tubes

Before changing the tubes in your amplifier, ensure that the amplifier is powered off and unplugged. 

Use caution when handling tubes as they may be extremely hot. If the amplifier was just turned off or has been on for an extended period, it’s advisable to wait 10-20 minutes to allow the tubes to cool down before handling.

Removing Tubes

Some amplifiers will have metal covers on the preamp tubes which can be removed by pressing them down and turning them in a counterclockwise direction.

When the tubes are cool to the touch, use a clean cloth or rag to grab the tube firmly and pull it straight from the tube socket. If the tube is difficult to remove, you may rock the tube carefully from side to side. Take caution to avoid bending or damaging the pins at the base of the tube.

Installing Tubes

To install new tubes, align the mounting pins with the tube socket accordingly and insert the tube completely into the socket. For power tubes, align the center “key” with the corresponding “key-way" in the socket. 

Tubes must be inserted in the correct orientation to ensure proper functionality and to avoid damage to either the amp or the tube. Tubes which are not inserted correctly into the socket may experience noise issues or failure.

Replacing preamp tubes in your amplifier does not require biasing.
Replacing power tubes in your amplifier requires biasing. Information on biasing your amp can be found here: How To Bias Your Amp – PRS Guitars

Please note: tubes are covered under the PRS Warranty for a period of 90 days after the date of purchase. If you’re experiencing issues with the tubes on your new PRS amplifier, please contact our customer service department for assistance.