My opinions re. SET and pp triode

I would disagree about a full range speaker being sent into clipping playing average pop music (ie, Ann Murray as an example). I have used the Audio Note ANj/L speakers and my current ANK/L speakers with both the P2SE amplifier (17 wpc pentode, single ended) and my current amplifier (Audio Note Conqueror, 300b, 8wpc/SET) with no shortage of volume. There was plenty of bass with both sets of speakers; the J models have significantly more and really do not require a subwoofer. The K speakers have solid bass to 50hz and I use a REL Strata II crossed at 40 with very low volume setting; sounds wonderful and I never want for power.

With the right speakers you can have full range sound with less than 10 watts. The old Klipsh cornerhorn speakers have something like a 104db efficiency; all you need is 3 to 5 excellent watts AND good transformers for room filling full range sound.

C12366 is right about transformers. I have an AirTight 300B amp (8-10wts) with Tamura trannies designed just for this amp. I have beautifully extended, pristine, natural highs. However, because of the speakers I use (ProAc 2.5s) the bass is a tad soft. With 30 or more watts, the ProAcs will do superb bass. I also use an REL Strata II which works wonderfully with the speakers run full range. Proper transformer design is the key to proper frequency extension in SETs. SETs can do everything with proper trannies and appropriate speakers.

Unfortunately, I have to disagree about Klipsh speakers - I've never heard one that sounded musical. Oh yeah, it helps to have a small or medium sized room when creating music through SETs.

One more thing, last week I was listening to a live CD from the original Fleetwood Mac, "The Boston Tea Party", from 1970. Hard driving rock and roll which my SET banged out just fine.

I agree that really good transformers are very important, and that is why I made the comment I did earlier. I don't use any output transformers, but it is true that the sound can be extremely good when you use excellent output transformers, as mentioned by others above. Don't skimp on the output transformers when you buy your SET amp, even if they seem very expensive. It is a key part that needs to be very good.