2. amps-preamps
  3. 195332-184484

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
mgrif104
419 posts
 

I had what many consider one of the better tube preamps in my 2nd system. I thought it sounded superb. But, it didn’t have a remote - though I could have had the factory add one and I found the resistor ladder on the volume a bit course for my taste. But, there’s no question of the sound quality. Again - superb.

But, I sold it and purchased a higher end solid state preamp. Candidly, while it sounds a bit different, they’re actually pretty close. The preamp I purchased is known for tonal density. It’s a bit quieter (naturally) and offers a bit more resolution.

My takeaway is that both topologies work well and the sonic gap between better units has narrowed considerably. My new preamp lacks for nothing though I do miss the nostalgia of my former unit. But even the most ardent tube lover would likely find nothing more to want in the solid state unit I have.

ghdprentice
8,110 posts
 

@woots 

Yes Burmeister is all about detail. 

ptrck887
87 posts
 

I had your same pre but with McIntosh M601's and later MC75 III.  Until you experiment with better NOS tubes, you are missing a great deal.  As a dedicated tube addict, I ran every NOS 12AX7 (and 5751) and 12AT7 out there....my favorites by a wide margin were the Sylvania JAN / JHS Triple Mica Blackplates and for 12AT7's I also preferred the Sylvania 12AT7WA.  Try that combo and see what you think.  The differences won't be subtle.

Enjoy! 

mrdecibel
3,174 posts
 

I was hesitant to add my 2cents to this thread, as some might feel I am negative about tubes, which I am. Unlike some above, I owned tube gear and went the solid-state route, very early on. I will never own tubes again, as "I" just don't see/hear any benefit's to "what I want" with my recorded music reproduction. Let's face it, we like what we like. Ultimately, whatever floats your boat, as I do believe, there is no right or wrong. Our journeys are a subjective one, and each of us are unique and different with audio, and, with so many other things in life. As long as we can enjoy our journey's destiny, it is all good. My best, MrD. 

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