I understand the theoretical differences which suggest solid state should be better than tubes in the bass, and ditto for low impedence speakers. But, in one of my systems, the best amp for bass, and for the Martin Logans and Thiels they drive is a tube amp. This is despite trotting many solid state amps through the joint (Krell, Classe, Aragon, Ocean, Lewitt, Plinius etc). I suspect the bass is better with tubes because the floor is suspended across spans of about ten feet - meaning it sucks bass somewhat. Using high-damping factor solid state amps the bass sounds almost swallowed. The tube amps (admittedly very good ones) have more realistic bass, with tightness, extension and air. I do not make this point to negate what has been said, only to point out that some situations prove to be the exception to the rule.
Tube vs Solid State - Comparable Output?
I know this is a terribly general question -- and maybe off the wall -- but is there any difference in a tube versus a solid state amplifiers' with comparable power ratings ability to generate high current? This relates to amp selection for current hungry low impedance speakers. Is 200w the same whether its created by tube or solid state? Someone recently told me that a 100w tube amp (Audio Research) was comparable to a 200w solid state amp in this regard. True or no? Thanks in advance.