Depends on the tube amp some have very good measurements very linear and some SS amps measure pretty bad. That said it seems most people who like tubes do like the coloration tubes offer. There is no right or wrong but if accurate and neutral are your goals SS is easier to find that with.
Solid states more accurate than tubes?
Ever since I changed speakers from a pair of Maggie's to Proac's, I find the tonal balance more accurate with a ss, especially acoustic wood instruments. Tubes seem to lack that tonal accuracy. I believe it's a more realistic and accurate rendering. Is that a fair assessment? I'm not arguing tubes don't sound good with it's rich, warm sound but just not as accurate.
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This is an interesting article on this subject! All tube amps do not sound the same and all solid state amps do not sound the same. It all depends on what amps you are comparing!! https://medium.com/collectors-weekly/could-an-old-school-tube-amp-make-the-music-you-love-sound-better-a35574739c45 |
SS has higher 7th and 9th harmonic distortion than tubes and that is not as natural sounding to the ear! Tubes have higher 2nd and 3rd harmonics, however that is generally more pleasant, so there is a subjective sonic trade off between tubes and SS. I prefer beauty over accuracy. When you look at your wife or GF after she rolls out of bed in the morning that is accuracy.... when she is made up for a nite on the town.....that is beauty. Some SS has the beauty of tubes and some tubes do not have beauty. |
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