Tube Watts Vs. Soild-State Watts?


I am considering replacing a large solid-state amplifier with a decent sized tube amp, and was wondering what I may be giving up/gaining by making the change? My speakers are quite sensitive, about 98dB. I love the dynamics and bass control the big SS amp provides, but I would like to get more resolution and detail out of my music. I don't play music at loud volumes, but I do enjoy decent listening levels. Any info appreciated.
333jeffery

Showing 2 responses by almarg

I’ll have to go on Ebay and get some spare QB5/1750 tubes for it.
I see that some sellers on eBay are offering GU-46 tubes for relatively low prices, and are indicating that they are equivalent to the QB5/1750. However the GU-46 is specified as being usable up to a maximum anode voltage of 3000 volts, while the corresponding spec for the QB5/1750 is 5000 volts. There might also be other significant spec differences between the two tube types; I haven’t checked further. So I would suggest that you avoid the GU-46 unless you are able to obtain confirmation from NAT that it would be suitable for use in this amp.

Regards,
-- Al

Edit: For that matter, I see that the GU-46 and the QB5/1750 don’t even have the same number of pins in their bases. So the statements in some of the eBay listings for the GU-46 that it is similar to or equivalent to the QB5/1750 are definitely to be ignored.
Great call on the identity of the amp, Charles.

Based on its technical characteristics and on what I’ve heard about NAT products I too see no reason to doubt that it will work out well with the DIs. 333Jeffery, just be sure to keep in mind that there is probably something like 3,000 volts on the anode cap at the top of the power tube when it is powered up, and perhaps for some seconds or minutes after the amp is turned off! Although the blazing hot tube will no doubt eliminate any temptation to get near it during that time, anyway.

Also, given the high sensitivity of the DIs you may find the 30 watt low power mode the amp provides to be useful during the hot weather months. In their full power mode I suspect the two monoblocks will be consuming something like 800 watts of AC power, continuously, and converting nearly all of it into heat.

Good luck. Regards,
-- Al