2. amps-preamps
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SS amp as opposed to tube amp


I'm writing this primarily for "newbies". I have both sets, tube pre and SS amp in bed room; tube pre and tube amp in the listening room.

Recently, I've been doing critical "unbiased" listening. Before, I was listening with bias towards the tube amp. I just installed "NOS" tubes in the pre with the SS amp, and I can hear every nuance those fantastic tubes are delivering.

While there is no way I would ever have a SS pre, I'm not at all sure about the differences between a transparent SS amp, and tube pre.

Someone has already mentioned the cost of retubing. If that's a factor, I vote for the SS amp; also tube amps kick out as much heat as a fireplace, definitely not for the bed room.

Since I'm the kind of audiophile who wants the best sound possible, even if it's imaginary, I'll stick with a tube amp for the listening room.

In conclusion, tube amp or SS amp is almost a toss up with this audiophile.
orpheus10
tubeking
65 posts
 
My friend lost a set of expensive speakers due to a SOLID STATE amp passing D.C. Perhaps Schubert may want to know this?
phaelon's avatar
phaelon
1,038 posts
 
As Charles1dad said: “...it’s all subjective”. If the elements of music reproduction that are most important to you are not effected by different amplifier designs (in your system), then you’re right - it’s a toss up.
orpheus10 OP
8,668 posts
 
Many "newbies" will not have the opportunity to audition tube and SS amps to decide for themselves whether or not the sonic merits of a tube amp are worth the additional cost, they depend on these forums. Audiophiles on a budget can not fly to the latest CES, and this thread is meant for those who want to get as much bang for the buck as they can get on a budget.

In general, I would say a good tube amp costs 3 times more than a good SS amp. From the thousands of reviews I've read, it seems that the sonic merits of tubes are never put on a sliding scale and weighed against the cost factor. While we agree in regard to pre, I disagree on the amp when the cost factor is included. That's very important for a new audiophile on a budget. For those who want to include sonic merits to the Nth degree without any cost considerations, I'll take tubes over SS; but to enjoy those "sonic merits" you have to listen intently, because if you're half listening, you can not tell the difference between good SS and a tube amp.
ramy
141 posts
 
It depends on the impedance of your speakers.In my case with high efficiency horn speakers with nominal impedance of 16 ohms my very powerful ss amp would not deliver adequate bass response,while a low power tube amp did get me the good bass.
orpheus10 OP
8,668 posts
 
Schubert, I had the same thing happen when something blew in a SS amp.
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