Why does my 35 watt tube amp draw 300 watts of power


Hi,

I have a Prima Luna Prologue 1 (tube amp). Love it.

Always been curious though. It draws 300 watts of power, yet is rated at 35 watts / channel. Is it really so inefficient that it is losing 230 watts to heat?

~Jim
jimspov

Showing 3 responses by charles1dad

Hi Jimspov,
I have an 8 watt SET amplifier  (class A ) that draws 180 watts. The sound quality is sublime and it is the best sounding amplifier I've owned. In my opinion the inefficiency is a small concession for consistently wonderful listening sessions. The bottom line is that you love the sound of your amplifier and that's a good thing. 
Charles, 
If efficiency is the objective then without question class D wins vs tubes, no argument. If class D suits your sonic and musical needs then you have achieved the best of both worlds ànd sincere congratulations. Thus far in my experience class A simple low power tube amplifiers push my buttons.  Good luck to all in their search for genuine satisfaction wherever it may lead you. 
Charles, 
Mapman, 
Well said and summarized. Choice is indeed a beautiful thing. 
Charles,