Amplifier power rating versus expected life span

[ronster]

Anyone out there have any idea if there is any general correlation between amplifier life span
and its wattage rating? (I am referring to class A/B solid state amplifiers.)

Or worded another way, will a 50 watt amplifier be less likely to have various component failures
over time compared to an equivalent quality higher wattage 200 watt amp?

My thinking: will the higher wattage and higher voltages have an effect on the life span of power transistors,
power supply capacitors and so on due to thermal stresses (more heat) and so on.

This is probably not an easy question to answer, but perhaps there are some experienced DIYers,
designers or technicians out there that have some insight.

Ron

[nigelwright7557]

Originally Posted by ronster

My thinking: will the higher wattage and higher voltages have an effect on the life span of power transistors,
power supply capacitors and so on due to thermal stresses (more heat) and so on.


Ron

If your running components near to their limits you are more likely to have problems.

[Jen-B]

The failures that I've seen before are normally electrolytic capacitors that have dried up, over-heated mains transformers, and solder dry-joints. Most of this seems to have been associated with running things at too high a temperature / unventilated.

If things are well designed and have some protection system and good ventilation then I think they can run for many years. Mind you, I don't know much about semiconductor quality, so maybe there is some form of aging process / heat cyling thing that leads to failure?

J.

[Charles Darwin]

I don't think there is any correlation between power output and life span. Bryston for instance gives 20 (transferable) guaranty on all their power amps regardless of output which ranges from 100w/8Ohm to 1000w/8Ohm.

[Glowbug]

Anyone out there have any idea if there is any general correlation between amplifier life span
and its wattage rating? (I am referring to class A/B solid state amplifiers.)

Or worded another way, will a 50 watt amplifier be less likely to have various component failures
over time compared to an equivalent quality higher wattage 200 watt amp?

Given proper ventiliation, not abusing things, etc...no relationship.