Hi!
I believe it depends more on the kind of SET amp and how tough is the load (loudspeaker effieciency, impedance and phase angle).
Most DHT SET triode amps have low distortion levels and in general sound quite alright without NFB, when matched to SET-friendly speakers.
However, SET amps based on output pentodes or tetrodes usually require a modicum of feedback to reduce distortion.
If you want to hear the effect of NFB, Cary's 805 SET amp has variable feedback. I have learned that with speakers that present a difficult load, 6 db of NFB is a good thing.
In summary, as with most things in life, there are no definitive answers set in stone, one must experiment and find out what is the best compromise.
Enjoy the music
I believe it depends more on the kind of SET amp and how tough is the load (loudspeaker effieciency, impedance and phase angle).
Most DHT SET triode amps have low distortion levels and in general sound quite alright without NFB, when matched to SET-friendly speakers.
However, SET amps based on output pentodes or tetrodes usually require a modicum of feedback to reduce distortion.
If you want to hear the effect of NFB, Cary's 805 SET amp has variable feedback. I have learned that with speakers that present a difficult load, 6 db of NFB is a good thing.
In summary, as with most things in life, there are no definitive answers set in stone, one must experiment and find out what is the best compromise.
Enjoy the music