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 toddalin

These videos compare an 80WPC P/P KT-88 Melton with no feedback used in the circuitry vs a Yamaha RZ-Z9 Receiver in "Pure Direct" mode.  From my understanding, no feedback leads to a "softer" treble, and that is certainly obvious here.

Every amp is just a bit different, and there would be more variation in tube amps than solid state, so take it for what it’s worth.

All levels are within a couple tenths of a dB using pink noise.  While the difference is instantly obvious, you need a good set of monitors or headphones to appreciate all the nuances.

These are recorded on a Nikon D750 DSLR and no eq or room correction, either electronic or physical is used.

Pull them up in two browsers simultaneously and go back and forth for the best comparison.  This is something you would never be able to do at home or in a shop using the actual equipment and shows just one of the values of YouTube.

https://youtu.be/HTxZJBoOywM

https://youtu.be/FDIu2BFbt-Q

https://youtu.be/W66SQS1wDUA

https://youtu.be/ZxhDJ_eOlYw