@raghupb , during a recent F2a SE build, mono block design, one after other. I smoked three power transformers. Each channel played for a couple of weeks, getting warmer and warmer and finally smoked. I frantically looked for shorts or failed component in both channels and found none. Its a very simple topology, tube rectified, eight components in audio path, each side and a simple CLCRC filtered B plus. I just happen to measure the AC mains which read 245 volts. All the three transformers (and fourth newly and exact wound) were speced at 220 volts primary....
Similar thing happened with a 6BM8 SE mono block amps (DC with a flip of switch) I made for a friend. He played it late in night and power transformer of one channel smoked eventually after getting warmer. Transformer primary 240 volts and his AC main was crazy 265 in the late qanights....
So far a simple solution I can think of: For every tube amp build, have Power Transformer with 0-230-245-255 volts. Install a rotary selector switch for any of the taps. Install a voltmeter in the amp mains supply. As soon you plug in your amp, read mains voltage, select the appropriate tap and switch it on. Will keep your B plus optimal, give you best sonics and long healthy amp life. AC variations cannot be more crazy than 220 to 265 volts PAN India !!!
Makes me wonder if every tube amp buyer for the first time needs to check his AC mains variation first, and find out the tube amp transformer specs before finalizing a purchase ????
@drlowmu If your recent DC tube amp is so great sounding then I would rather (instead of Lowther Beauhorn Virtuosos, no offense intended to the owner) mate it with Fane 15" full range drivers housed in a Telefunken Open Baffle. These do 17K to 40Hz of beautiful, natural, open, relaxed music. There easily handle music power till 100 watts and at 101 dB rating, play very very loud with just 1 watt of tube power, giving many high end multiway and coaxial setups a run for money !