Ultralinear vs. Triode vs. SET


I currently have a Rogue Cronus that I have been quite satisfied with, but I am intrigued with the possibility of a SET amplifier. From both a technical and sonic perspective, what are the differences between a tube amp with switchable ultralinear and triode mode vs. a true SET amplifier?
droz

Showing 4 responses by phaelon

I can't qualify my preferences like Atmasphere, but like many, I find the limitations of SET's too restricting. My adventures in audio began with solid state, but as soon as I realized that tube amplification was the common thread shared by the systems I liked, I've been devotee, and spent time with several examples of your subject designs. All choices involve some compromise, which then boils down to your personal musical values. The best compromise, for me, has been a well executed 300b push-pull design of moderate power. My tastes in music are pretty wide ranging and this design has allowed me to enjoy the entire range without extreme limitations being placed on my choice of speakers.

Charles1dad made the solid statement that you would get many "opinions and experiences expressed here" and then expressed his. As I read the original post, it is not an inquiry exclusive to SET amps but a comparison between SET and other designs. While I guess the word extreme is subjective, we disagree that SET's, in general, aren't much more demanding and restricting of the speakers they're matched with.
"I`ve never heard one but love the look of them."

Yeah Charles, that's the nice thing about the Italian stuff; if you don't like the sound, you can always put it on the mantle and call it art. :-)
" is`nt HiFi it`s music presented naturally."

LOL - Oh no! You're not really going to bring that one back, are you Charles?