how hot is too hot!

[howzz1854]

so thanks for all you guys' help. my first self built amp (crack) is now fully working.

but i notice the amp gets really hot. i know the tube is supose to get hot, but when i touch the aluminum plate, it's feeling pretty hot too. so i am just wondering how how is too hot. should i stick a couple aluminum heatsinks underneath? on top?

[Doc B.]

It's fine, tube gear just gets hot. Just make sure you have the rubber feet on the base so that it sits above the surface it's on and air can flow in from underneath.

[howzz1854]

It's fine, tube gear just gets hot. Just make sure you have the rubber feet on the base so that it sits above the surface it's on and air can flow in from underneath.

cool... i was going to wait until i stain the wood, but i'll put those feet on now. thanks!

[Grainger49]

That is FAQ #3:

http://bottlehead.com/smf/index.php?topic=2408.0

Some were cut off in the last update of the site.  I have found 2 more to add.

[kgoss]

You could put a book under each end to raise it until you are ready to finish the base. Whatever you do make sure the amp is stable and won't fall.  Air flow under the base is critical for proper cooling.