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SET v. Pushpull

I did a search and didn't find any threads on this topic.  I am a newbie to tubes - I have a Tavish Adagio phono stage, and I am looking to add an integrated tube amp into the analog chain in my system - I have never owned one, so my knowledge level is low.  Right now I am running KEF LS50 speakers, but they are a little small for my listening area so possibly looking at larger speakers - I was very impressed by the Joseph Audio Pulsars I recently heard, as one example.

Anyway, most of the integrated tube amps in my price range are seem to be push pull, although the Line Magnetic is SET.  At a high level, I understand the push pull design gives higher output power than SET, but also higher potential for distortion.  

Any practical experience with the pros and cons of each?  And how important is this in the overall scheme, in real world applications?  Say, compared to the choice of output tube?

Thanks,


Tom 
tgr

Showing 1 response by analogluvr

analogluvr
859 posts
 
 One thing I would point out is that some of the distortion from push pull comes from the crossover region which can be more objectionable to your ear. SET distortion is mostly even ordered and usually is perceived as pleasant. But you do want to run SET very lightly in which case it’s one of the lowest distorting topologies around.  In my experience, running very efficient easy load speakers, I preferred SET over push poull and 0TL over SET by no small margin. 
 And in my experience SET running a proper load is not warm and fuzzy. It’s quick light and dynamic. I just found O TL to offer an even better picture into the musical event. Hard to describe. 
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