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Understanding Tube Power Ratings

What do I need to know about the power ratings for tube amplifiers?

With solid state models, I looked to see if the power output doubled from 8 ohm to 4 ohm as one sign.

What about tubes? Are 250 tube watts comparable to 250 solid state in terms of driving power? Please, I understand equal measurements should mean equal results, but am I missing something?

I'm looking to move from the Bryston 4B ST currently driving my Thiel CS 2.3s. I have a Rogue 99 magnum preamp and have the new Rogue Zeus on the short list. The Thiel need for high current had me shying away from tubes, but I am rethinking this.

Thanks!
johnmcalpin

Showing 1 response by paintbox

paintbox
1 posts
 
I have to put in my newbe .02.

I think sound should be your starting point. Forget about power. First decide whether or not you like tubes or SS
I am new to the tube life and let me tell you,I feel that tubes sound much better.
I a\b'd my Jolida 202 against a high end, high powered SS amp and like my cheapo Jolida heads and shoulders above the other.
This was on box speakers as well as Maggies.
It made me realize that there really is a difference and a large one at that.
Let me remind you that I'm really new to all of this. I haven't gotten into any of the tweaks other than tube rollin'. So the difference was not taken lightly when I heard it.
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