SET 45 Amp Driving Dynamic Speakers

Hello,
I happen to agree with your comments. This is why I often state that you actually have to listen to a component/system to get to the truth. Otherwise it’s far too easy for preformed opinion to be presented as fact. I have 94 dB sensitivity/ 14 ohms speakers that I originally drove with 100 watt PP tube amplifiers(60 watt in triode mode) and this match was exceptionally good sounding. 

Strong curiosity led me to purchase an 8 watt SET amplifier (mono blocks) using 300b tubes seven years ago. For my particular listening needs and taste the 8 watt SET improved my system’s presentation and moved it to a higher level. In other words I went from legitimately "very good " to superb . It all depends on what musical and sonic parameters are most important for a individual listener. I’m glad that I took the chance to try the lower power amplifiers. The crucial key is defining what type of sound you are looking to achieve.

tommylion:
Of course you are correct that SET amps can provide an exquisite and special listening experience. The key is your wise words "carefully chosen speakers". Your Audio Note speakers are specifically designed for your type of amplifier and listening. The AN web site basically states to get the best results -use a SET amp.

I have a horn system and also a dynamic driver Teresonic system.  The horns are driven by the 300 B SET amp and the Teresonic by the 45 Tube SET amp. I think both provide a special intimate and moving musical experience.

A big problem I see repeatedly is speakers being sold that are not efficient but somehow are so special in some sort of novel design that they will perform to their optimum with a SET amp. Buyers then give the SET amp a bad rap for lacking dynamics or bass when the seller's hype exceeds the laws of physics.

I hope to try the Emission Plate mesh tubes some day. From what I have read in the just right system they add a special touch. Congratulations on having that system.

David Pritchard

Great comments,
Could not agree more. Happy listening, best, Rob

Indeed, high efficiency and high impedance speakers are common factors when you read/hear someone is happy with a SET amp. Another factor is the SET should be driven "well below" its rated power, which is of course undefined how low is low enough.

I'm in the process of building an active system with SETs for treble and midrange and class-D for midbass and subwoofers. It's said power required below and above 350Hz is about the same, so by crossing around there (or higher) you relieve the SET from carrying half the load. If you further divide the upper range into two, then each amp will carry 1/4th of the load.

I have my eyes on Yamamoto's A-08S (45 SET), and while the speaker driver options aren't super wide, there seems to be enough. I guess demand pulls for drivers where high efficiency and impedance aren't as big a deal, the manufacturers follow suit. It is being a fun journey!

The Yamamoto A-08S is on my list, if I come into some unexpected cash. I'd run it into my ANs (92 db?) full range, just like I'm doing now. I'm sure it will have enough "slam" for when I play The Killers. 90 db is LOUD!