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tube magic with digital source?

Is the "magic" of tube amplification more pronounced when listening to an analog source as opposed to a digital source?

It's been a long time since I have listened to either vinyl or tube amplification. Currently I listen to Tidal and Qobuz exclusively, through a Lyngdorf TDAI-3400. I sometimes take analog out of the Lyngdorf into my Pass XA30.5 if I want to try to coax a little more warmth out of the sound. But as good as the Pass, which I have had for several years, is, it doesn't sound that different from the Lyngdorf's amp on the vast majority of recordings. That surprised me a lot when I first got the Lyngdorf. 

What I am wondering is, is a high quality tube amp as likely to present as much of that subtle (or not so subtle) holographic magic if the source is digital?

jaybarnett
jaybarnett OP
25 posts
 
Thanks @millercarbon. So do I understand correctly that it is simply a waste of tubes if one only listens to digital sources?

Jenifer Warnes is a great case in point, BTW.
inna
7,235 posts
 
Digital sources are not created equal, so I would not be so sure. Internet digital is not the best digital. You just have to try if you really want to compare.
ei001h
275 posts
 
Millercarbon, are you saying that there is no difference in Tube vs SS if you're listening to digital source? Maybe I misunderstand your reply but
my experience is completely opposite. I routinely use a digital source in both SS and Tube amplification with several different speakers. I think tube amps definitely introduce warmth, holographic image and sweetness that's lacking in SS. I use a SET. It's day and night different. Even when I use a tube preamp with SS it still sounds SS. But a tube amp changes everything. Adding an analog source, of course, will make the sound even better and tubes will really shine. I also agree with you, I think tubes are more accurate in every way in music reproduction. Instruments and voices sound real. 
inna
7,235 posts
 
I think, it is more a question of if it's worth it when the source is quite weak. 
Well, SET, it's a different world.
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
it ALWAYS depends on the specifics - generalities are close to useless
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