What makes different amps produce different sound?


I think many of us know and undertand how various components in a 2-channel or HT system have an effect on sound output. While I understand the undr the hood workings of pre-amps, sources, and speakers, I know very little about amps. Obviously, there's more to amps then type (tube vs. SS) and power ouput.

I've done a web search for a good resource on amplifiers but haven't come across anything of value. Anyone know of a site that describes the theory behind amp design and its various components? Also, since there is a degree of subjectivity that accompanies amp performance, what aspects of your amp of choice contribute most to its performance?

Jeff
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Showing 2 responses by eldartford

Tube amplifiers characteristically produce second harmonic distortion whereas transistors like to produce the third harmonic. Musical instruments typically make second harmonic sounds, so the tube amplifier distortion, even if rather high, is often perceived as pleasant or "musical".
Bomarc...I really don't know where I learned what I posted: it was long long ago, and I know I have seen it many times. See also the comment by ralph@ above.

Sometimes there is confusion about numbering of harmonics. If you do a Fourier analysis of an audio signal, what we call the fundamental is the first harmonic. DC is the zeroith harmonic. When speaking of an AC signal, harmonics are usually numbered as multiples of the fundamental.

Perhaps brass instruments do produce the "unmusical" harmonics. This explains why they sound so strident compaired with strings.