Epiphone Valve Special

SlopeSoarer

I've just acquired an Epiphone Valve Special and only being the second amp I've owned (first being a Vox VX II) I want to learn a bit about it from any that have had experience.

Is a bit of hum normal when turned on?

When being turned on there sometimes is a popping sound, like being in an empty hall (if that makes sense), is that normal or indicative of something?

I guess it is around 12-13 years old, would there be any benefit from changing the tubes? If yes what and where is good to source them from?

Other than the above I'm very happy with the sound (but don't have any experience of tube amps to compare with) and do like how it can be played pretty quietly with without the depth of sound being affected too much.

Getting ahead of myself now (can't help tinkering) I assume the two silver cylinders contain tubes... how does one remove the cover/cylinder?

mistercharlie

The cylinders are on a sprung bayonet fitting, like a UK lightbulb  Just push and turn to remove. How mine work anyway. 

martinw

They're called valves.
(There's a clue in the name of the amp).