Amps Using the 211 Tube

First off you are comparing two different class of tubes i.e. triode vs. beam tetrode. Typically I prefer the sound of a true triode tube when compared to a tube that is wired for triode operation. I too prefer the 845 tube over the 211 tube.

I love DHT tubes!
But I agree with onemug, just about any answer concerning audio components/sound could begin with "It all depends"

The other amp that I liked with the large Horn speakers was not a Raysonic.It was the JAS Array 2.1 and uses 805 tubes for output.I am told that they are smoother (less grain) than comparable 845 based amps.The 805 tubes are similar in sound to the 211 tubes and have that "you are there" live quality to their sound.

Please do not put a blanket statement on the sound of a particular tube. 211 can sound very different depending on the operating point and the output transformer one chooses.

I do not have a great deal of experience with SET amps.I have owned and currently own a number of EL-34,6550 and KT-88 based amps.Some are/have been wired for both ultralinear and SET operation.With my speakers and in my room I have preferred the higher power output of ultralinear or push/pull operation.

My experience with 211 (and 805) amps have for the most part been in the large listening room of a local retailer driving large/efficient horn based speakers (SQ H-12 and H-15).My comments are restricted to those amps that I have named in that room,driving these particular speakers.There are times when I wish I could pack-up my clothes & toothbrush and move to that room!!!