2. amps-preamps
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If you had to choose: tube amp or tube pre-amp?

So I've been on the market for a tube pre-amp, and would also like to upgrade my amp as well but I was wondering?

Upgrade to a tube amp or tube pre first?

I'm using an old Sony V444ES running the pre-outs to a 2-channel B&K amp (reference 125.2). If more details on my other components (dac, Upsampler, etc.) or speakers will help, let me know and I would be happy to list.
hockey4496
hifitime
715 posts
 
Add another here for a tube power amp, and solid state preamp.
Post removed 
gpgr4blu
1,088 posts
 
More tube sound overall = tube amp
Less tube sound but more dynamics = ss amp/tube pre
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
As to which type of amplifier SS or tube will sound more dynamic is completely dependent on the speaker they`re matched with (this can`t be emphasized enough).Same is true for bass performance.Based on the designer`s intent some speakers need more or less damping factor from the power amplifier(output impedance level,yes or no NFB levels), also depends on the speaker`s Q factor.Generalizations don`t hold up, you must account for the numerous parameters involved.
Regards,
metman
233 posts
 
I used to be in the preamp camp first until I got my Eico HF20 rebuilds from JWN - get a really good tube amp first and then match that with the best tube pre you can find
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