2. amps-preamps
  3. 1053732821

Which will make the most impact, Tube amp or pre..

amp?
I am mostly satisfied with my system but have always wondered if tube power would make my Silverline Sonatas sing even prettier. I have considered an 8 wpc SET amp. However I have been told by some that the biggest difference was made by a tube preamp. I know the conventional wisdom for a hybrid system is a tube preamp with solid state amp. Adding a tube amp would be opposite from standard thought but I am very happy with my SS preamp. But then again I did not think a good preamp was supposed to "color" the signal. So why does a tube preamp make more impact if this is true? I am skeptical but I may be wrong. Will the SET amp make a big difference. My system is listed if you need reference. Thanks
artemus_5

Showing 1 response by steuspeed

steuspeed's avatar
steuspeed
501 posts
 
I run a tube pre and SS mono's and I like the combo very much. I had and OTL Atma-sphere S-30 for a bit and it was slightly better in the mids and top-end, but it lacked the bass control of the SS amps.

After looking at your system you might consider trying a hybrid amp like Blue Circle. Most tube amps won't match the bass from your CJ, but the mids and top-end should be better.

Looks like you need a full function preamp for all your needs. This makes the pre-amp is a more difficult choice for experiment. If you like what a hybrid does, then you know which direction you need to go with your 2Ch.

Good Luck,

Stewart
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