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SS amp as opposed to tube amp


I'm writing this primarily for "newbies". I have both sets, tube pre and SS amp in bed room; tube pre and tube amp in the listening room.

Recently, I've been doing critical "unbiased" listening. Before, I was listening with bias towards the tube amp. I just installed "NOS" tubes in the pre with the SS amp, and I can hear every nuance those fantastic tubes are delivering.

While there is no way I would ever have a SS pre, I'm not at all sure about the differences between a transparent SS amp, and tube pre.

Someone has already mentioned the cost of retubing. If that's a factor, I vote for the SS amp; also tube amps kick out as much heat as a fireplace, definitely not for the bed room.

Since I'm the kind of audiophile who wants the best sound possible, even if it's imaginary, I'll stick with a tube amp for the listening room.

In conclusion, tube amp or SS amp is almost a toss up with this audiophile.
orpheus10

Showing 2 responses by roscoeiii

roscoeiii's avatar
roscoeiii
1,155 posts
 
Donjr,

What tubes are you using with your Rogue? A tube change might get you what you want. In particular, maybe look into KT120s.
roscoeiii's avatar
roscoeiii
1,155 posts
 
As for costs of tube vs solid state amps, there are some less expensive tube amps out there (up to about 100 watts or so). For efficient speakers the MiniWatt is amazing at $350ish. For more powerful amps, look at Rogue or Quicksilver. Line Magnetic may also be a good option.

For higher power with some tube sound, maybe look at hybrid designs. Vincent or Butler for example.
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