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Tubed Pre question?

Which configuration gives better ALL around good/great sound for a lot of types of music?

Tubed Pre-Amp paired with solid state? or maybe Tubed Pre-Amp with a tube amp, or a Tube Pre-Amp paired with a hybrid amp (tube input, SS output)...

(Yes.. I already own a tubed pre..)

Which combo regardless of different brands sounds juuust right in your opinion?

I am sure I'll get all types of responses. BUt that's what I want. I'm 38 years old and I listen to mostly live music of the likes of the Grateful Dead(Live Recordings/Soundboards/Studio Albums) Allman Brothers, jam bands..etc.. but I also like The Blues, old time rock-n-roll, hard rock is cool w/me..(older AC/DC, Guns-n-Roses..many others) I like Jazz too..(Sonny Rollins is excellent imo.), original punk, good 1980's/90's pop tunes etc.. BUT I am also open to new GOOD music that may some along in any genre..

Again.. which configuration would sound juuust right in your opinion?

thanks!
gr8tfuljeff
philjolet's avatar
philjolet
2,306 posts
 
for my money go all tubes

I think if you go tube pre and ss amp you get a little of both and a never quite achieve the magic either can bring

I see mixing the two a lose/lose situation - I have tried it but missed the tube liquidity and glow you get in an all tube set up and if you match the proper speakers to your amp the bass and dynamic range will be fine
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,588 posts
 
Gr8tfuljeff,

Hope we've all helped answer your question.

The answer is apparently all and none of the above.
blindjim
3,092 posts
 
Given your tastes in music, I'd say SS amp + tube pre.

I had such a setup, and went all tubes thereafter.

I do prefer all tubes, but with some music having the authority of SS driving and controling the speakers is a very good thing.

The right tube setup throughout will still be a worthwhile investment.

I'm decidedly undecided.

So I have both. tube monos and an SS amp to go with my tube pre.

That was the best decision I could come up with... and I would still prefer a better SS amp, but can't fade one right now... and won't sell my monos to get one...

it's good to have both. it keeps the upgrade bugs away too... as sometimes that's just change for chages sake anyways.
dopogue
1,773 posts
 
Tubed everything -- linestage, phonostage, SET monoblocks, CDP (Raysonic 128). Works for me.
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Go all tubes, and don't look back. Mono blocks a must. Look at the VAS gear. Great sound, service and value.
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