How to fix issues with a 6080?

[mtheshark90]

Problem:
My Tung Sol 6080 seems to be a bit finicky, possibly damaged. If I hit my desk too hard or bump it enough, there's a sudden loud static and metallic clinking noise that will come through the left headphone channel. If I let the tube cool down, pull it out and shake it, I can hear metal bits moving just a bit, but then this seems to "reset" the tube and it will work. The next time I hit my desk, the problem reoccurs. I've swapped out to different tubes and have not been able to reproduce the issue, so I'm convinced it's only my Tung Sol.

Do I just have to buy a new one?

[Paul Birkeland]

You can keep using the tube.  What you're experiencing isn't particularly abnormal, nor is it an indicator of an issue. The bits (which are likely glass) that you hear rattling around are unrelated to this issue.

[larcenasb]

I check these pages almost daily, and continue to learn more and more about general problem solving (not just with amps) from you, Paul. Thanks for all you do.

[Paul Birkeland]

You're very welcome, we are glad you are here.

[Thermioniclife]

Checking the forum often is a great way to keep me off the streets.

[mtheshark90]

Interesting, thanks for the response, Paul. Out of curiosity, what causes this issue? I assumed that by bumping my desk I was causing an inappropriate connection somewhere in the tube, leading to the sound issue. I can't explain why only the Tung Sol does it, though.

[Paul Birkeland]

The cause of the issue is the bits inside the tube itself moving around.  If you end up with a Mainline, all 6C45 tubes tend to do this, but they ring at a pretty high frequency.