2. amps-preamps
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Tube power vs Solid state power, how much is enoug

Thinking about getting into tubes. My concern is how much is enough? From what I've seen, tube amp power is, on the whole, lower than solid state. I mean - ain't watts, watts? It's sort of confusing. Not being a big fan of non-dynamic (plannar, which there is nothing wrong with them, just not my cup of tea)speakers, I aim to wind up with either BW802, Legacy Focus/whispers, or the like. Unless I can find another way to achieve full range sound with a tube anp, I'll probably use(and really want to), my Krell with the tube, in a two amp configuration, driving one pair of the above mentioned units.

Shouldn't manufacturers just state voltage development or current ratings, instead of watts? Sure, more folks recognize the term watts, as it relates to power. But if it all comes down to how much voltage/current can be developed, and how quickly, then the term "watts", seems arbitrary. More so wehn you talk about "tube amps".

For the most part, I've long since quit looking at specs and just let my ears do the judging. That seems the best route. Problem with that is my ears usually end up arguing with my wallet, heart, and what is left of my brain. Some of these arguments are frightful. The winner is not always the ears. More times than not, the wallet wins. (not always), but usually. I try to leave the brain out of it as much as possible. Although, in this instance, I need to throw the brain a bone so I ask this question.

Just how do you figure out tube watts vs. solid state?

Please help my poor, ignored, seldom the winner, brain.

Thanks,
the brain
blindjim

Showing 3 responses by blindjim

blindjim OP
3,092 posts
 
Thanks Jeff

Now, for the next hurdle. Matching amps.

I want to run SS on the bottom and a tube, on top. Go figure. (primarily because I have SS, I like already - just need a tube.)

It's been pointyed out to me recently to get a match "look at the output voltages of the amps. Final output? Primary? In between?

Gonna use both of them to run B&W 03 or 02's with.

Any suggestions B&W is pretty sketchy about this, as they rate impedance somewhat differently than most.
blindjim OP
3,092 posts
 
Well, all the comments have merit. I do appreciate them greatly. Thank you.

Learned a lot since I opened this thread. some startling things as well. Like just how much power is actually running the speakers at any given time. Usually less than 20 watts. Also, just how much better good tube amps sound than similarly priced solids.

Hence I am sold on the idea to bi amp. two reasons.

One - don't have to lose my existing solid state amp.
Two - get to enjoy fuller sweeter, more rounded and life like music. That's the ticket, right?

Now just which tube AMP (S)? And which tubes in the tube amp to use? pUSH PULL, FEEDBACK, SELF BIASING, CATHODE FOLLOWER. . . . mAN! wHAT A BUNCH OF STUFF TO DEAL WITH.

PRETTY SURE I'LL GO WITH THE ONE THAT SOUNDS BEST, IN MY PRICE RANGE, AND NEEDS THE LEAST INVOLVEMENT ON MY PART.

Any suggestions, apart from the Laffeyett? Used or new?

Thanks to all.
blindjim OP
3,092 posts
 
Thank you. Everybody. I'm a bit late in responding to this line of thoughts and experiences, but I do thank you all.

I've chosen what I think is best for me.... tubed preamp, and Solid state amp. Seems the logical choice with fair benefits over strickly SS all the way. Not to mention the greater assortment of loudspeakers that are made available by virtue of the SS amp. I do love the combo I have now. When with speakers not known for their "Audiofool" (and yes, I'm including myself there too)qualities, but far more than adequate, colorless and homogenously coherent speakers... the sound I have is absolutely liquid. Detail, sweet, warm, rich all of these apply.... a good source as well adds to the mix... got one of those too. Finally.

Presently, I reside in the realm of "Man, that's really good!" everytime I turn it on and play it, now. of course, I would prefer to be in the court of "Man, that's really great." each time I play it, though.... and hence the quest for a bit more something edges me onward. Upward. More to the point, to the arena of "Man You sure must have more dollars than sense." which is where I would need to be to acquire the items on my wish list. Not necessarily the item one needs to obtain great audio but close to that , "...great!" sounding ball park. As evidenced by the current state of affairs I enjoy. I am not insatiable. I do have limits. I can be happy simply with the sound that continues to present itself as fresh, involving and musical at each sitting. I am certain also, that domain is soon to be one I enjoy routinely.... a few more peripherals, wires, and an upgrade in loudspeakers will, I am sure, do the trick.

So thanks again for your experience and wisdom, and interesting insights. Perhaps one day given my taste in sound, I'll go ALL tube.... for the time being with an amp of very good quality and less than two years old, I shall remain in this not uncommon space where glass and transistors, give voice to a most wonderful song.
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