tube ringing?


Hi folks, recently I replaced my Accuphase preamp with a CAT SL-1 Signature Mk III. My power amplifier is a Gruensch CSE II se and speakers are Soundlab A-1's. Speaker cable is Cardas Golden Cross. First I have to say that I hear a significant improvement over the Accuphase and I think it is a matter of pre/poweramp matching. The sound is quite good now but... with female voices for example Barbara Streisand I hear that the 600-800Hz region is emphasized. It reminds me of some ringing. Could this be ringing of the tubes inside the CAT? Or is it just room acoustics thing?

Chris
dazzdax

Showing 1 response by newbee

FWIW I don't think microphonics in tubes is going to cause a 'ringing' in the 600 to 800 hz range. It would be much more noticible in frequencies above 2000hz IMHO.

Sounds like you may just be hearing the difference between the sonic nature of some tube pre-amp's which can be a tad more forward in the mid-range and quality ss which are usually much more linear. Also, consider that tube selection is critical both tonally and clarity wise. You may just need some different tubes in the pre-amp.