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SET - Limitations from Amp, Speaker Match, Both?


Considering diving into the lower-powered tube world for a second system -- amplifier and tube compliment far from decided at this point, but let's assume the world of the 45 and 2a3 for sake of argument.

I obviously have little listening experience with the low-powered tube amplifier world as well as SETs specifically.

I have read of the enjoyment folks have had.

I have also read of many limitations, some in extension, some in detail, some in dynamics, all from various angles and system configurations.

Let's assume a relatively popular 45 or 2a3 amplifier, exotic parts, but no exotic topology or anything, paired with what would be considered an ideal speaker for it -- no crossover, extremely high sensitivity, and an extremely easy load that matched the amplifier as perfectly as you could come by.

Let's also assume that we're working with a speaker that doesn't go extremely low -- let's say its +/- 3db point is 30hz or 40hz or 50hz..

Eliminating much of the typical issues of system matching, and assuming an ideal loudspeaker, what limitations remain?

With the right matching, is a 2a3 or 45 based amplifier suitable for all musical styles? A thriller of a movie, hard rock, techno, the sound of a chainsaw. These obviously aren't what I'll be listening to, but I'd prefer to choose extremes to truly understand what the end result is...

Are headroom and dynamics simply a function of the amplifier and speaker matching, or do limitations exist with a typical amplifier as well?

Just curious if in an absolutely ideal match of wattage/voltage and transducer, what limitations still exist.
cjr888

Showing 1 response by herman

herman
2,215 posts
 
As a fan of the systems you descibe, I think your assumptions are a little off. A low power SET amp coupled to a high efficiency driver in a properly designed cabinet will be about as dynamic and as detailed as you can get. There will be plenty of headroom.

The limitations are at the bottom end. I would describe a speaker that goes down to 30Hz as one that goes pretty darn low, but you are not going to get there with a low power SET unless you have a very large cabinet. I mean VERY large. I supplement my Lammhorns ( with Lowther DX-3 drivers driven by about 2.5 watts of 2A3 power) with an MBL sub. Even if I do say so myself, it is an excellent sounding combo that will play very loudly and cleanly when you ask it to, and sounds wonderful at what I would consider normal listening levels. I have never been happier. Well, there was that cheerleader, but I digress.

Some will say that these systems sound so good because they produce distortions that are pleasing to the ear. Perhaps, but who cares. While chasing the holy grail with very expensive and highly regarded high power amplifiers and multiple driver speakers, I would sit and listen and wonder what I should do next to improve the sound. Now I just sit and listen, tap my foot, and enjoy myself. Isn't that what we are all looking for?
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