The difference between tubes and solid state that I am finding


I'm still a newbie when it comes to tubes. I have had the McIntosh C12000 preamp (with Moon 861, Eversolo A8, and Focal Sopra n1s) for awhile now. It is very enjoyable. I noticed when switch between Tube amp and Solid state mode the difference is very subtle. But when I do focus on it, I notice:

Tube sound: More open with a slight blossom sound. Maybe slightly more holographic. A pretty sound. 

Solid State sound: More exact. Instruments seem more there and defined. More in my face. Bass hits harder to. But not as open and airy. 

As far as brightness, I wouldn't say ether one is more softer than the other... the brightness seems same on both. 

Am I correct in this is how the differences between the tube/states differ?


I really enjoy both modes.... but I think the solid state one gets me a little more excited. 

 

dman777

Showing 1 response by celtic66

Depends on how you like your pasta.  Endless combinations and permutations of gear rendering same number of acoustic palettes.  I've several systems running and like them all.  I've owned several tube pieces, same with SS.  There is no RIGHT.  There's better..... and worse.  But no right.  Like finding the 'right' Monet.

I like tubes, but tired of the endless chase to re-tube, upgrade the tubes, wonder if they were still strong enough.  For me, SS, really really good SS ended that quest.  For me.

And I moved away from the richness, romance if you will of that tube sound and moved to immediate hard hitting live sound.  No listening fatigue, just live.  For me.

Enjoy the journey.