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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

Showing 1 response by zmanastronomy

zmanastronomy's avatar
zmanastronomy
738 posts
 
Great topic.
I've just accuired a Battery powered Tripath amp based on the 2022 chip and love it. I have tubes in my output stage on my Modwright Sony 999es that keeps the tube magic in my system.
I had a Almarro A318B SET amp that was replaced with the Tripath amp. I think I like the Tripath better in my system.
You are correct in the SS vs Tube toss up. If done correctly and matched up well with other components.
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