Tube Watts Vs. Soild-State Watts?

I am considering replacing a large solid-state amplifier with a decent sized tube amp, and was wondering what I may be giving up/gaining by making the change? My speakers are quite sensitive, about 98dB. I love the dynamics and bass control the big SS amp provides, but I would like to get more resolution and detail out of my music. I don't play music at loud volumes, but I do enjoy decent listening levels. Any info appreciated.

333jeffery03-07-2017 8:55pm

...
29 posts total
View entire discussion

almarg Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 8,673 posts 03-08-2017 at 10:22pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I’ll have to go on Ebay and get some spare QB5/1750 tubes for it. I see that some sellers on eBay are offering GU-46 tubes for relatively low prices, and are indicating that they are equivalent to the QB5/1750. However the GU-46 is specified as being usable up to a maximum anode voltage of 3000 volts, while the corresponding spec for the QB5/1750 is 5000 volts. There might also be other significant spec differences between the two tube types; I haven’t checked further. So I would suggest that you avoid the GU-46 unless you are able to obtain confirmation from NAT that it would be suitable for use in this amp. Regards, -- Al Edit: For that matter, I see that the GU-46 and the QB5/1750 don’t even have the same number of pins in their bases. So the statements in some of the eBay listings for the GU-46 that it is similar to or equivalent to the QB5/1750 are definitely to be ignored.
audiofreak32 Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 253 posts 03-08-2017 at 10:31pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Yes, current is what drives the loudspeaker, but all things being the same, a tube amplifier rated at say 50-watts will generally sound much louder than a SS amp at 50-watts.
charles1dad Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 6,996 posts 03-08-2017 at 11:25pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I'm with Al in regard to the output tube selection process, confirm with NAT before even thinking about any possible tube alternatives. This is a serious amplifier with ultra high voltage and I'm certain strict design criteria and circuit and power supply layout. Reviews and word of mouth say this is a superb sounding amplifier. I'd be surprised if it doesn't clearly outperform the Musical Fidelity transistor amplifier currently in use. Jeffery you may discover that you've achieved a world class audio system. Charles
russbutton Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 136 posts 03-11-2017 at 02:37am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete http://www.tubes4hifi.com/bob.htm#ST120 60 wpc tube amp $ 929 kit without tubes $1580 wired, with tubes, ready to run http://www.tubes4hifi.com/bob.htm#M125 120 watt monobloc pair $1778 kit without tubes $2795 wired, with tubes, ready to run Prices include shipping in USA
glennewdick Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 702 posts 03-11-2017 at 03:30am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete do you really need that much power with 98db speakers. i'd think a quality built 8-25wc tube amp would be fantastic. I think you'd get more bang for your buck as out put transformers make or break a tube amp (unless you go OTL) and good ones are expensive. I recently put in a 8wpc 300b based SET into my system with 94db Living voice speakers and i'm shocked at how great they work compared to the 50wpc class A SST amp it replaced. I think you should try ( borrow if possible) a high quality low powered amp and I think you will be surprised. I ended up with the Triode Labs / Finale Audio F 3008 with the James transformer upgrade all around.