SET vs OTL vs SECC (Single Ended Capacitor Coupled) One could also bring in SE tube or transistor amps with no output transformer, but with quality "capacitor coupling" instead, which to me is the better way. cost shouldn’t differ, maybe even cheaper. https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/transformer-coupled-vs-capacitor-coupled Lots to read here https://www.google.com/search?q=Capacitor+coupled+output+amplifiers&oq=Capacitor+coupled+output+... Cheers George |
Correct using a "Zero" type autoformer is a "bandaid fix" for an OTL amp that is not suitable for that speaker loading, far better off getting the right amp. OTL's that tend to suit speakers without having to use autoformers, then speakers then are mostly not that accurate, like I said it's a "catch22" If you still want to use P/P tube, to use a P/P tube amp that has a "proper output transformer" as part of the amps design and feedback configuration. Cheers George |
In a nutshell, hypothetically, if the speaker is a "very easy drive without any hindrance" at all to either amp, the OTL in class-A will be the better amp full stop. BUT!! for an OTL not to be hindered IN ANY WAY at all by todays "better sounding speakers loads" that have NOT had "their sound compromised" (because they were designed "firstly" too give a very easy load), is a big ask. And those type of "very easy to drive speakers" usually have big other glaring problems to many listeners that are susceptible to their colorations, so it’s a bit of a catch 22. Cheers George |
