Why do tube amps often subjectively sound more powerful than SS ?


In my case, VAC Avatar SE integrated 60 watt/ch in ultralinear mode feels like double the power at least. Same speakers, same source, same cables and power cords.

inna

Showing 3 responses by inna

On the other hand, if you talk Gryphon SS power..This can be bloody hell. I didn't compare directly Gryphon and, say, VAC or ARC amps. Now, this could be interesting in terms of power and it's perception.

 

I listen mostly at moderate levels, not much distortion besides the one coming from the recordings themselves and some from the speakers that I do hear.

The impression is that tube amp does have more power in reserve, and you can feel it.

Tubes are superior to transistors, anyway, and that's a true explanation ! I agree with many others here.

It's not really about loudness, it just feels more powerful at the same volume.

But I would say that in my case it is an excellent amp/speakers electrical match, the amp drives them with effortless grace at any sane level.