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
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,506 posts
 
Rrog, funny!

Ya, my Belles amp was letting DC out. No, I did not put my foot through them.....
rrog
1,958 posts
 
I thought sure it was the pedal to the metal that did it.
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,506 posts
 
No, I'm mostly an 85db kind of listener.
donjr
1,335 posts
 
Okay, so I would agree with everyones perception of tube amps. I have a Rogue Cronus Magnum, source is Audiolab 8200cdq (32 bit) and Harbeth C7es3 's. I love my speakers and I want more power /current for tighter bass control and I want another integrated. I might get back into vinyl after 28 years without my Technics TT. Any suggestions? My thought has been Luxman SS but id like a couple of tube suggestions as well. The Rogue is not all that tubey to me. I like the Rogue and would probably keep it. Room is 12x18 and I listen to Melody Gardot, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Miles Davis and Talking Heads.
orpheus10 OP
8,668 posts
 
Rrog, some days my system sounds so glorious that I'm transported to another time and place, but on other days it may not sound so glorious. What is real, and what does my imagination contribute to that euphoria.
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