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Tubes vs. solid state.

I just switched back to my ss equipment and can't see how I listened to ss for so many years and thought that I had a good system, maybe the equipment needs to be left on for some time.
But regardless of that, the difference is startling. I know that my tube equipment is not the same degree of excellence as my ss, but now ss sounds lean, thin lifeless. Have my listening priorities changed? One thing I noticed; my listening perception adapts to the sound present in the room. As I write this the sound is improving incremently.
Anyone share the same experience??
I will post as I will continue to listen and notice differences.
Ss is simaudio p-5 w-5, tubes are Cj premier 4 amp and audio experience a2se preamp.
Are there ss preamps that will satisfy or am I smitten by bubes I mean tubes.
pedrillo

Showing 4 responses by tvad

tvad
9,467 posts
 
I believe one sane audiophile locked alone in a room could carry on a SS vs. tube debate all by him/herself without coming to a conclusion.

Each approach when optimized yields excellent results, which can be thoroughly enjoyed without hesitation, until the other approach - also optimized - is presented. The cycle can be repeated ad infinitum.

IMO.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
01-26-10: Pedrillo
PLease list the ss equipment that sounds as good as tubes...
You're kidding right? This is a no-win question.

As soon as someone gives an honest opinion of an amp that qualifies, someone else is going to come and piss on the suggestion.

The likely candidates have been mentioned over and over again in dozens of ss vs. tubes threads. Do a search for the recommendations, and then try one for yourself and let your ears decide.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Instrument amps are often vintage tubed gear...especially guitar amps and some organ speakers, etc.

However, depending on the size of the venue, the instrument amps are then reinforced through the PA system and mixed with the drums. The PA system is generally solid state, as far as I'm aware.

So, the concept of a live performance being powered by tubes gets a little fuzzy...no pun intended.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
02-01-10: Pedrillo
Unamplified comes to mind first whenever live is mentioned.
Where snobbish audiophiles are concerned, that may be true. However, in the real world, amplified live music is much more prevalent than unamplified music, orchestral and chamber music aside.
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