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Tube Amplifier Sound Characteristics

I wish there were a scatter diagram one could put together of tube amp sound qualities. The reason I say this is that today's tube amplification can range from sounding warm and romantic to cool and solid state like.
I like the sound of VTL, Quicksilver and Antique Sound Labs. I am in the market for a tube power amp and as I shop I see where more and more amps do NOT sound like tubes at all. So where would the sound characteristics of the 3 amps I mentioned be? For example I was considering the ARC Ref75SE but owners tell me it is SS sounding. Your thoughts are appreciated.
jimbones
knotscott's avatar
knotscott
960 posts
 
There are a lot of variables in play....the circuit, the caps, the tubes, the rest of the system...all contribute, so even an amp of the same brand and model can sound different with different tubes.  One of the things I like about tube amps is that you can tailor the sound to your liking by carefully choosing which tubes you use.  
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
5,003 posts
 
+1 @knotscott  Spot on. Sort of makes most of the threads debating about amp brands look suspiciously like a waste of time.
jimbones OP
259 posts
 
@Hilde45 I was just thinking of tubes as supplied from factory or stock units. For example on the extreme left (warm/tubey) I find Conrad Johnson. I have a Rogue preamp that is more in the middle. I have heard from people that in general that is their house sound.
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,949 posts
 
I would caution anyone thinking about older VTl....yes they sound good, but if the day ever comes that you need service you will experience the worst customer service on the planet.   
jimbones OP
259 posts
 
@oddiofyl I have heard, that is why I am reluctant to buy any older VTL. I do have a good tech to fix amps but I dont want anything too old.
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