2. amps-preamps
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SS amp as opposed to tube amp


I'm writing this primarily for "newbies". I have both sets, tube pre and SS amp in bed room; tube pre and tube amp in the listening room.

Recently, I've been doing critical "unbiased" listening. Before, I was listening with bias towards the tube amp. I just installed "NOS" tubes in the pre with the SS amp, and I can hear every nuance those fantastic tubes are delivering.

While there is no way I would ever have a SS pre, I'm not at all sure about the differences between a transparent SS amp, and tube pre.

Someone has already mentioned the cost of retubing. If that's a factor, I vote for the SS amp; also tube amps kick out as much heat as a fireplace, definitely not for the bed room.

Since I'm the kind of audiophile who wants the best sound possible, even if it's imaginary, I'll stick with a tube amp for the listening room.

In conclusion, tube amp or SS amp is almost a toss up with this audiophile.
orpheus10
schubert
7,386 posts
 
When that tube blows and takes a pr of 3K speakers with it,
might sound different.
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
I agree not much to add here. A ss amp paired with a tubed pre is a great combination . I have owned this combo (conrad-johnson) and liked it very much. I am now using a Cary SLI-80F1 (tube integrated) and I enjoy it as well; so to each his own.

Chuck
tubeking
65 posts
 
My friend lost a set of expensive speakers due to a SOLID STATE amp passing D.C. Perhaps Schubert may want to know this?
phaelon
1,052 posts
 
As Charles1dad said: “...it’s all subjective”. If the elements of music reproduction that are most important to you are not effected by different amplifier designs (in your system), then you’re right - it’s a toss up.
orpheus10 OP
8,668 posts
 
Many "newbies" will not have the opportunity to audition tube and SS amps to decide for themselves whether or not the sonic merits of a tube amp are worth the additional cost, they depend on these forums. Audiophiles on a budget can not fly to the latest CES, and this thread is meant for those who want to get as much bang for the buck as they can get on a budget.

In general, I would say a good tube amp costs 3 times more than a good SS amp. From the thousands of reviews I've read, it seems that the sonic merits of tubes are never put on a sliding scale and weighed against the cost factor. While we agree in regard to pre, I disagree on the amp when the cost factor is included. That's very important for a new audiophile on a budget. For those who want to include sonic merits to the Nth degree without any cost considerations, I'll take tubes over SS; but to enjoy those "sonic merits" you have to listen intently, because if you're half listening, you can not tell the difference between good SS and a tube amp.
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