35 watts in Ultralinear vs 50 watts in Triode

"Will triode always be softer" between different amps?

No. The term 'always' dictates that response. I would be more ameniable to saying 'generally, yes' if the term were 'usually'. The power difference between 35wts and 50wts amounts to about 1 to 1.5db in SPL, which in practical usage is nominal. Everything else being equal I think most folks wouldn't hear the difference in the amount of power available not the effect of the difference either for that matter.

Hi Jov

I found that running in triode mode give a slightly more forward and melodic sound. Switching to triode always meant a dip in rated output, but I never found triode to be lacking in power – both my Sli80 and V12 seemed to go equally loud in UL and triode modes.

All thing equal, I doubt seriously 35wpc UL will be more punchy that 50wpc triode mode. If anything, the amp in triode mode would probably be able to be driven harder before audibly distorting.

Personally I would opt for the sixpacs. EL34s are very melodic in triode mode, and if the sixpacs are anything like the V12, it will not disappoint in the bass department.

Regards
Paul

In triode the only thing between you and the music is the air.

Having run Manley amps with triode/UL options I found that UL seemed to create a "sheen" or "veneer" over the music. It seemed "harder" Sorry I am lacking the vocabulary to be more specific.

I have always found triode much more listenable and approachable. OTL triode lacks for niether detail or bass slam as Atma-sphere owners will attest.