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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 1 response by rajugsw

rajugsw
224 posts
 
I dabbled inTubes last year and this year. My conclusion: 

Tube Preamp followed by a GaN FET Amplifier (Orchard Audio Ultra) is my combination of choice.

The Jolida 3502 (KT150’s) worked fine with the BAT VK50-SE but it at times felt like 2nd order harmonics overkill if that’s such a thing. 
My opinion/my ears/my room. Of course your mileage may vary (WTF does that mean anyway) 😂.
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