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Hybrid Tube & SS

I know there are a number of hybrid integrated amps out there now that have received some favorable reviews. Have not heard one for myself yet. If you have heard them or own one , how much of the “tube sound” and soundstage is lost going this way?  Saw a video from PS Audio saying that tubes are for preamps and SS is for amplification and that we are best to let each do their job. Related, is anyone using a tube preamp and a SS amp as separates?
cincyhound
islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
I used to run only Transistor amps and preamps. Now use only tubes for my stereo system. Six months ago, I found the ideal tube amp (3C24 amp) for my speakers (custom built Tannoy HPD 315's), and I'm getting the best sound I've had in over 40+ years.

Sometimes the right circumstances align, and you can wind up with the best setup ever. Just got to get with the right people, or have deep pockets to get what you want. I've never been that guy, though.

Regards,
Dan
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,320 posts
 
Hmmm.  There are tubes in PS Audio's BHK power amps and in the M1200.
tomstruck's avatar
tomstruck
353 posts
 
I had all tube integrated amp now running Aexthetix pallene and Atlas both hybrids I think its the best of both worlds the Aesthetix integrated amp Mimas is very close second 
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millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Good answer.
Unless you've heard it talk is cheap.

Was at a show one time, Chris Brady was doing extensive demo's of his turntables. He can change platters so we were able to hear everything exactly the same except for the platter. At one point for some reason he changed the phono stage. No idea what they were but the first one was all tube. He happened to be standing next to me and so after listening a minute I turned and said, "Is this all tubes?" Mostly, but there's an op-amp. "Doesn't take much then does it?" No, it does not. 

Like that. When you can hear, you can hear. Until then, very hard to explain.

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