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Ultralinear vs. Triode vs. SET

I currently have a Rogue Cronus that I have been quite satisfied with, but I am intrigued with the possibility of a SET amplifier. From both a technical and sonic perspective, what are the differences between a tube amp with switchable ultralinear and triode mode vs. a true SET amplifier?
droz

Showing 2 responses by almarg

almarg's avatar
almarg
9,670 posts
 
Some really excellent posts above!

I'd be interested in further comments that anyone might have on how much of the 45/2A3/300B "magic" tends to be sacrificed in well executed designs that use higher powered transmitting triodes, such as the 211 and 845. For push-pull as well as SET configurations, if possible.

Regards,
-- Al
almarg's avatar
almarg
9,670 posts
 
Paul, I suspect that the lower output impedance/higher damping factor of the 4 ohm tap (probably a factor of 2 different compared to the 8 ohm tap) was also a significant contributor to the differences you heard. That would be particularly so because your speakers, like a lot of others, have very wide impedance swings in the bass region, iirc.

Best regards,
-- Al
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