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Re: EL34 tube flash when disconnect or connect pre-amp to main

You are risking damaging the tubes or other components in the amp by doing this. When you disconnect the preamp form the power amp you are likely (and unintentionally) disconnecting the ground before the positive. This causes severe hum which can drive the amp to a high power level and damage parts in the amp or speakers if connected.

If you want to change states without turning of the amp you should consider adding a switch that will select multiple inputs without breaking the ground connection. Another option would be to use connectors that ensure breaking the positive before the ground. RCA connectors do not have a standard for the length of the contacts and therefor some will be ok and some won't be. XLR connectors will at least break both connections at the same time. You could shorten the positive pin a bit to force the issue.


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