I own the Van Alstine FetValve Ultra amp. Tube input stage, SS output stage. It is a killer amp, combining the beauty and HF extension of tubes with the control and articulation of SS. Yes, it can be done, and in this case done very very well. I've had other all SS and all tube amps in my system over the years; this one is winner take all.
What are your thoughts on hybrid amplifiers?
I have recently set up a completely vacuum tube system and it sounds, well, gorgeous. I was looking at the Pathos Classic One Hybrid amplifier which uses vacuum tubes in the preamp portion, and solid state amplification.
So, to the "tube people" out there, can a hybrid amp preserve the warmth and sound that many of us still think is a function of vacuum tubes, or is it "lost" when the amplification output is solid state?
So, to the "tube people" out there, can a hybrid amp preserve the warmth and sound that many of us still think is a function of vacuum tubes, or is it "lost" when the amplification output is solid state?