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more reliable amp: tube or solid state class A

i got to reading this thread:

http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?aamps&1144724173&openfrom&1&4#1

i require no convincing that class A sounds better than AB or D or whatever else, but the efficiency is terrible, with the efficiency losses being reflected as heat.

and heat, as we know, causes thermal breakdown. this is a matter of engineering: the hotter a component runs, the shorter the mean time between failure. simple stuff.

but here's the question: if we took 2 equally hot-running amps, one tube and one SS, over the long haul, what would be more reliable? the tube amp, or the SS one?

i'm thinking the tube amp, solely b/c the tube is the hottest part, and its failure is accomodated for in the design (you simply plug in another tube). a hot running SS amp will eventually burn out resistors / transistors, and joe audiophile will be forced to send that to the factory for replacement.

(i am going to do some HVAC work on my room, and if i can keep in cool in mid July, i will be moving to the winner of this argument)

thx
rhyno

Showing 2 responses by timrhu

timrhu
2,779 posts
 
Over the long haul? Do you really expect to be using which ever you decide on for more than a few years? If you are seriously considering replacing your McIntosh amps already, it seems unlikely. It always amazes me when someone using this site says they've been using the same equipment for more than two years or so. I wonder what the turnover rate really is.
Anyhoo, solid state gets my vote. Less hassle in the short run and probably in the long run also.
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
Yo Pauly, "strange comment?" As I read through these threads it seems very common for respondents to mention the many components coming and going through their systems. Some Agon members seem to change components as often as they change their socks.
For a while I was one of those. My Meadowlarks have been with me for about three years. They've been with me longer than any other piece. Although I believe the other components currently in play will be here for a couple of years.
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