2. amps-preamps
  3. 1269286523

Tube or Solid State

My question is, to power a pair of Usher Dancer CP-8517 would you go with the McIntosh MC402 SS Amp, or the MC2102 tube amp?

I grew up admiring the idea of owning my own tube system. But I'm worried that the tube amp wont give me enough sound for what I'm used to. I'm used to playing my music loud and although I understand it isn't an ideal format, all of my library is digital.

Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
bt~
ntropy8

Showing 2 responses by j_bailey

j_bailey
53 posts
 
I believe the MC2102 is 100 wpc and the MC402 is 400 wpc. The Ushers are around 89dB @ 8 ohm.

So 1 watt = 89dB, 2 = 92dB, 4 = 95dB, 8 = 98 dB, 16 = 101 dB and so forth. Once we get north of 100dB, I have to ask how loud is loud enough?

An increase from 200 to 400 wpc seems like a lot until you realize that the increase from 200 to 400 gives you the same thing as an increase from 2 watts to 4; that is, a 3dB increase in SPL. So the difference between 100 wpc and 400 is 6dB.

Assuming the impedence curve of the Ushers is fairley flat, that is, that they are not difficult to drive, the 2102 should be capable.

I have read that one tube watt is equal to two SS watts. I do not know if there is a scientific basis for this or not.

Hope this is helpful.

Cheers,
Jim
j_bailey
53 posts
 
Tvad: Fair enough. From 95 dB the tube amp has the headroom you suggest.

Newbee: Your statement about the differences between the 2 is a bit of over simplification. I do not want to turn this into another endless debate on tubes vs SS. You are obviously an SS guy and I am a tube guy. All we can probably do is to agree to disagree.

Cheers,
Jim
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