2. amps-preamps
  3. 169777-4635

Tube Amplifier Sound Characteristics

I wish there were a scatter diagram one could put together of tube amp sound qualities. The reason I say this is that today's tube amplification can range from sounding warm and romantic to cool and solid state like.
I like the sound of VTL, Quicksilver and Antique Sound Labs. I am in the market for a tube power amp and as I shop I see where more and more amps do NOT sound like tubes at all. So where would the sound characteristics of the 3 amps I mentioned be? For example I was considering the ARC Ref75SE but owners tell me it is SS sounding. Your thoughts are appreciated.
jimbones

Showing 2 responses by mozartfan

mozartfan
2,143 posts
 
 and more amps do NOT sound like

All tube amps sound the same to my ears, 34,88,120,250 all sound pretty close.
Tube = tube
Minus the 300b which was made for telephone usage = dull
mozartfan
2,143 posts
 
I wish there were a scatter diagram one could put together of tube amp sound qualities


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In a  blind test, you might not determine which is tube which SS, but trust me, tube is the only way to hear music.. Nuances nunaces nunaces
make sure front end has 12AU7 section,, when I swap brand X for a  Telefunken 12QAU7,, I note a  drop in sonics,, So with tubes you can have fun rolling, + rolling different power tubes,,make sure the tube amp takes all varities of power tubes.
EL34 = KT120 bias..
Basically all power tubes sound same, but its fun rolling anyway.
More to discover