Fender BXR 200 dimly lights bulb tester

[Axtman]

I am working on a mid 90's Fender BXR (Bass eXtended Range) amplifier. When I initially power on the amp it very dimly lights my dim bulb tester (100w bulb).

Usually a solid state amp will flash bright then die down quickly as the reservoir caps charge. The amps usually end up drawing such little current that it does not appear to light the bulb. Not so with this amp. Should I be concerned?

Enclosed is service manual. bxr_200.pdf

[nosaj]

A dim bulb test should only be used for a go no go situation after a change is made. I typically only use a 40 or 60 watt bulb after a wiring change. After that i go to and isolated variac supply or a power conditioned line.
I would not be concerned.
nosaj

[Enzo]

Please note the BXR200 has an inrush limiter that many other amps do not have.

[g1]

If you are saying that this amp idling glows more than typical amps on your bulb, check the power transistors idle current.

[Jazz P Bass]

If you re going to be working on more SS ampws, you really should have a way of actually monitoring the mains cuurent.
I use a Kill-A-Watt meter.
Kill A Watt - Wikipedia

[Axtman]

Jazz P Bass,

Per your request. The amplifier draws 0.61 Amps (37 watts) at idle.

[Axtman]

The only thing that appears to get hot when the amp is idling is two small transistors (Q9 and Q10).

[Helmholtz]

I understood what worries you is that the amp does NOT show a curent surge after turn on.

If so, see Enzo's comment.