2. amps-preamps
  3. 1359749445

Tube amplifiers and interstage transformers

Hi,

I have seen that a lot of very expensive tube amplifiers use interstage transformers to handle impedance between stages. There are other two methods to handle impedance between stages: capacitor coupling and RC. I would like to know if somebody with more knowledge can explain the difference in the sound of these 3 styles.

Somehow, it looks like some of the most expensive SET amplifiers have interstage transformers like Audio Note or Shindo.

I also read about the highly regarded amity and karna amplifiers that D Olsen built and they have also interstage transformers.

So, what are the benefits of using interstage transformers?

Thanks

Alan
alanbrain

Showing 3 responses by intactaudio

intactaudio
306 posts
 
The use of the term "impedance matching" isn't really appropriate for the majority of interstage transformer usage.

Typically output transformers are used to "match" the high impedance of a tube to the low impedance of a speaker so they usually have rather large stepdown ratios.

In the case interstage coupling, tranformers with ratios around unity are typically used. A 1:1 doesn't help with impedance matching, Small step up ratios make the impedance matching worse and it is only the transformers with a stepdown ratio that help in the impedance matching situation and you typically see them used for the drive of an A2 grid.

dave
intactaudio
306 posts
 
This might not be an appropriate response but system synergy is the only thing that can give you what you want.

The problem is, you need to know what you want prior to asking the question or you risk a 1000 post thread from others telling you what they think you need.

dave
intactaudio
306 posts
 
hey,

Measurements do have a relevant use, they just aren't useful as a predictor of sound quality.

bingo! Measurements are objective, sound quality is subjective and there is a word that describes ambiguous blending of the two in order to manipulate.

Advertising.

dave
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