What contributes most to a change in how an amplifier sounds?


Amplifiers include tubes (if not solid state), big transformers, lots of internal wiring, Power supply, cabinet, gain controls if you're lucky, connections for incoming and outgoing cables, Computer chips,  Control panels, semiconductor boards, design choices, age,  etc.

Of all this stuff, what contributes the most to a change in how an amplifier sounds?

 

 

emergingsoul

Without a doubt the power supply is critical. There is also the input stage, which if not done well will result in the output stage amplifying distortion and artifacts. 

The meters:  Instantaneous is far superior to averaging.  A common misconception is the color of the backlite illumination matters.  This is a myth.

My experience is that the color of the housing is the most influential determinant. A shiney black case produces less harmonic distortion. And I agree that a good on/off switch can make a critical difference.