If you believe that a tube preamp or amp sounds better, then it will. The same goes for Solid State. Both types of electronics are a means to an end. In the end it comes down to personal preference and affordability. Its funny how in the 80s to early 90s good tube gear could be had for a fairly reasonable price that sounded as good the SOTA, very expensive SS gear- albeit with some component upgrades such as better wiring, capacitors and so forth. Now, it seems both types of electronics have comparable pricing. Tube gear has an ongoing cost that must be considered- replacement tubes. Not too bad when it comes to preamps, but big power amps can carry a significant maintenance fee for the periodic replacement of tubes.
What is a better route, tube or SS preamp?
Hi everyone! I recently unloaded all of my home theatre gear, and am concentrating on a 2 channel stereo system. So far I have a shanling cd-80, a naim 150 amp, Martin logan aerius loudspeakers, and a carver ct-17 preamp. I'm looking to replace the preamp, however, I'm not sure wether I should go solid state or tube. I know I need to demo some of both, but I wanted some opinions or if anyone has prior experience in this matter. Right now my amp is a SS and my cd has tube output. Everything sounds pretty good, but I want it to sound great!
Also, I will mostly be listening to a lot of hard rock and heavy metal, but also a lot of classic rock as well..
Lastly, I am aware of the amp input impedance and preamp output impedance ratio for both tube and SS. Is there anything else I should consider when pairing an amp and preamp?
Any help would be much appreciated!
Thanks everyone!
Also, I will mostly be listening to a lot of hard rock and heavy metal, but also a lot of classic rock as well..
Lastly, I am aware of the amp input impedance and preamp output impedance ratio for both tube and SS. Is there anything else I should consider when pairing an amp and preamp?
Any help would be much appreciated!
Thanks everyone!