2. amps-preamps
  3. 157268-5435

Why don’t tube amps sound like tubes anymore?

When I hear the latest tube amps I’m more reminded of what a solid state amp sounds like than what I remember a tube amp once sounded like. I say that, with most tube amps I hear today, but not all. Gone seems to be the lush tones, warm glow and natural harmonics I used to hear. What I hear is more of a thoroughbred, faster, sharper sound when I listen to a modern tube design today. Then why use tubes?
hiendmmoe

Showing 2 responses by oldhvymec

oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 

erik_squires8,881 posts05-24-2020 1:31pmIf you ask me, it's the almost universal switch to the use of Wima caps.
LOL, I never though of it, but they are in just about everything new and older (not ancient). They sound great, close tolerance, and last just about forever..

Regards
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
There is something else to consider. The new valve preamps and amps have heat limitations.  They just can't get as hot as the old and be sold, as a retail unit.  The really great sounding valve units made today, are borderline with the heat issue, and probably tip the scales in the summer months..
Production runs of 5-50.  Not 500 to 5,000. 20,000.00 vs 3-5000.00
that 20,000.00 (sometimes) will get the "tube" sound back... The 3-5,000.00 model will keep the heat out, the sound., maybe.

The new VTLs might as well be SS they sound so, SS..LOL
Really, they remind me of the older Krells.

Regards
More to discover