SET Preamps

We make some of the very few tube preamps that are **not** SET... ye olde Dynaco PAS-3 is SET, as is the Citation 1, many of the earlier ARC preamps, the CAT, the Joule Electra; Al is correct- most tube preamps are 'SET'. The term really is for *amplifiers*, where it creates a distinction, not preamps.

I wasn't sure myself when I asked. I heard the term not long ago for a popular Canadian made preamp.

Hi Audiogabby. I have been using a Dehavilland Mecury II for the last three years. I agree with your assessment of it. However, I found that with the proper vibration control applied the bass can be deeper and taught. First, I put a 3mm Marigo Audio VTS dot under all of the tubes. Then I use a set of Marigo Mystery feet under it, which sits on an Adona rack. I also replaced the stock Russian output caps with Mundorf Silver/Oil ones (I consulted Kara before doing this). Finally, I replaced the 5 AW4 rectifier tube with a Tungsol 5U4GB. I'm no longer looking to change preamps.

Hi Audiogabby, did you read this?

I agree with everyone who said most or nearly all tube preamps are SET, but why?

In other words, why is a simple single-ended triode able to give 21st-century state-of-the-art performance in a preamp circuit, while similar performance in the power amp seems to require ultralinear push-pull circuits or something even fancier? Is it just the ability to drive the nasty load characteristics of the average loudspeaker? Just interested in case anyone knows the answer :)