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Tubed Pre question?

Which configuration gives better ALL around good/great sound for a lot of types of music?

Tubed Pre-Amp paired with solid state? or maybe Tubed Pre-Amp with a tube amp, or a Tube Pre-Amp paired with a hybrid amp (tube input, SS output)...

(Yes.. I already own a tubed pre..)

Which combo regardless of different brands sounds juuust right in your opinion?

I am sure I'll get all types of responses. BUt that's what I want. I'm 38 years old and I listen to mostly live music of the likes of the Grateful Dead(Live Recordings/Soundboards/Studio Albums) Allman Brothers, jam bands..etc.. but I also like The Blues, old time rock-n-roll, hard rock is cool w/me..(older AC/DC, Guns-n-Roses..many others) I like Jazz too..(Sonny Rollins is excellent imo.), original punk, good 1980's/90's pop tunes etc.. BUT I am also open to new GOOD music that may some along in any genre..

Again.. which configuration would sound juuust right in your opinion?

thanks!
gr8tfuljeff

Showing 3 responses by mapman

mapman's avatar
mapman
21,830 posts
 
I'm in Tgrisham's camp for the most practical solution for most people..

There is no right answer but I think tube pre and good SS amp can deliver all the goods in more applications more cost effectively and more reliably over time than can all tubes.

All tubes will cost more and have more limited application depending on speakers and will also probably require more maintenance over time than many might be comfortable with.

A few carefully placed tubes is a cheaper and easier way to go.

Not to say that some of the best sounding systems out there may well be all tube systems.
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,830 posts
 
Gr8tfuljeff,

Hope we've all helped answer your question.

The answer is apparently all and none of the above.
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,830 posts
 
"TRL Samson mono block amps"

Has the word "tube" in the manufacturer's name even though a SS amp.

Does that count?

LOL.
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