Switchable Tetrode - Triode please explain

Hi Weiserb; would you mind telling us what differences in sound quality/character you've noted when switching from tetrode to triode mode(s) with your amp? And maybe what speakers you're driving with it? I've been thinking of the VTL 150 myself. Thanks. Craig

why do you have to power down to switch? i can switch mine back and forth without missing a beat. triode is less rated power but i have found it to sound even more powerful than tetrode.

I agree with Kirk930. I have found that triode mode, even though it has less actual rated power, generally sounds more dynamic than a tetrode. It is similar to the way a 300B triode at 7W can sound more dynamic than a 35W push-pull.

I listen to mostly symphonic works and find my 7W Amp more than dynamic enough with my speakers (91db)

Sibelius

If I do not power down the amps I can hear and see how speaker drivers are poppin'.
just don't like to have my speaker blown. even when I place a cartridge needle on the groves I do mute my phono before.

The System I am using ...
CJ Premier 14
Linn Lp-12 with lingo , Grado
Sonic frontiers SFCD1
Aerial 10T 's

I listen to Pop rock , Jazz , Blues and Classic rock. I like to play mostly at concert levels !
I think the Tetrode mode produces more forceful bass and is a little more lively. Powering down as per VTL does make it more difficult to compare. I like the VTL amp very much! I just think the explaination of this issue on the VTL web site is weak.