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Where do the tubes go?

I have so far been a solid state guy, but I am looking into another system, and I would like to give tubes a try.

1. Would most people recommend an all tube system, or do you recommend starting with only a tube component or two.

2. What are the relative merits and disadvantages of placing tubes at various stations in a system CD-->pre amp --> amp ?

For instance, I have read that some people feel that that the micro-distortion (pleasing though it may be) is excessively magnified if started at a source component then magnified through a bunch of high power solid state electronics. Others have advocated that having tubes early in your system gives the tube sound quality and allows for higher power, lower maintenance/heat solid state amplifiers.

For the tube experienced, how where should I start integrating tubes? (starting a new system so disregard concerns of mating to existing equipment).
aceofhearts

Showing 1 response by bigkidz

bigkidz
3,416 posts
 
Most of the tube units that come in for repair from my experience have failed because of poor design. Sometimes not enough room inside, sometimes poor circuit board thickness, and poor overall design to handle what a component should be able to deliver without breaking down. Even some of the higher priced units I see are made poorly.

Happy Listening.
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