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Why is solid state more popular when tubes are better?

Yes tubes are more involved and require periodic maintenance. Hybrid tube components need not apply, these are really solid state.

Tubes are better for multiple reasons and yet the world and the trade prefers solid state. Those rare audio shops that are geared toward stereo listening and serious connoisseurs tend to Focus more on tubes.  Those in business who like to improve volumes tend to offer solid state.  All the YouTube channels looking to improve their business tend to be solid state.  Maybe because tubes require much more expertise to sell, and there's lesser and lesser to go around. Solid state is more of a fast food commodity.

Tubes are difficult for businesses due to all the maintenance and complexity so you see it less often. Much much easier to sell hybrids or solid state.

 

 

emergingsoul
moguls
19 posts
 

I am amazed that so little of this discussion is about the music. In my experience, tubes vs ss, tt vs digital, separates vs integrated...

In all the examples, the closer to perfection in design/build etc., the closer to perfection in musical reproduction. When we refer to ss sound, tube sound, vinyl sound...we are referring to the imperfections introduced by gear. And hey...end of the day, some cardboard with magnets make the music.  It is all a wonderful illusion. That's not actually a symphony orchestra is it?

secretguy
1,590 posts
 

@moguls +1,000!

drbarney1's avatar
drbarney1
172 posts
 

If a transistor goes bad, you have to take it to a technician to isolate it and to replace it. This added expense is likely to exceed replacing most tubes. Tube circuits are so simple that you can check the resistors and capacitors (for shorts) and often do it yourself. 

coltrane1's avatar
coltrane1
682 posts
 

Food fight! But yeah, it’s true. Tubes are beautiful. And you can swap them for infinite results. Good luck doing that with anything SS. That is, unless you plan on selling it first!

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