Should I got full tubes or stick with hybrid amps?


I currently have a Jolida 1501. I like it but I think I have upgraditis. I originally bought it (hybrid) because I’m really sensitive to highs (get a headache). It’s been good to me and I can listen without fatigue.

To help with upgraditis, I just bought a Yamaha AS801 to try out and although it definitely sounds good and has nice detail it is creating a little fatigue for me. I’m still in the break-in period so this may smooth out a bit.  (I definitely like having bass/treble controls).

Thinking about picking up a full tube amp or another hybrid for comparison. I don’t know much about other manufacturers of tubes/hybrids.

What’s the difference (sonically) between a hybrid and a full tube amp? Any recommendations?

Thanks!!
soundchasr

Showing 17 responses by soundchasr

@russ69 
Those Musical Fidelity amps are considerably more expensive than the 801...... I'm sure they sound great. :-) 

@smrex13 
I have a better power cord I'll try. I've never heard of changing out the fuse before. I'll look at that.  

I'm also still about 20 hours into the break-in.  
@dekay 

I don't know anything about footers or isolation.  Do they really impact sound that much? Even in an amplifier?  
@dekay 
I've tried a few different tubes.  Right now I'm using GE 5751 from 1955.  I had Mullard 12AX1s from '67 before that.  

@erik_squires 
Room acoustics are probably not great.  Hardwood floor with an area rug covering most of it.  Hard objects everywhere....

Am I right that the hybrid should have the warmth of the tube amps and the bass of SS?  So, the best of both worlds?  


@russ69 
How would the Musical Fidelity compare with the Yamaha AS801?

@hilde45    
I'll throw some comforters and pillows around this weekend and see what happens.  
@hilde45   
Didn't think about the fireplace or the pics.  Definitely need to look at some acoustic panels.

@elliot  
Great suggestions.  I only listen from my desk (in this room).The black chair just sits there. Considering getting rid of it.  I don't use it. Equipment is to the left of my desk. Sitting on a table.  Thanks for the tip about 4 power tubes.  That will probably change what I can look at.  

@hobo1452   
I'll take a look at the Vincent.  I heard (somewhere) that they soldered their tubes and weren't very helpful if you wanted to change them or needed other support.  Was your experience with them different?  

EDIT: The Vincent is almost $3k.....  dang.  I like everything else about it though! Tone controls and loudness are sweet. 






Ok, everyone.  Let's say I put aside $2,000 for an integrated or separates.  What say you!?


I’ve been comparing my Jolida to an As801 for a few days now and I have to say I love the tone controls and loudness button on the Yamaha! I really like the control it gives me. So much that I think that’s a must have for me.

I put the isolaters under the Jolida.  I'm not sure I notice a lot of difference. It still sounds good. :-)


Update:

I ended up auditioning several SS amps (Yamaha As2100, As801, Marantz PM8006).  Keeping the Marantz. Put the Jolida on eBay.  I will likely go back to tubes in the future but I'm pretty happy with the Marantz for the moment.