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Tube vs. Solid State Rectifier

How much does the rectifier stage effect the character of an amplifier. So far, on nearly every SS/Tube decision that's come down, I've gone with tubes. Now, I'm looking at two 300b push-pull integrated amps, the main difference between the two is that one puts out 18W/ch and uses tube rectifiers while the other puts out 25W/ch and uses SS rectification. The SS unit has a much greater bandwidth and just specs out better in general. I'm leaning toward the SS rectifier as long as the amp will still have that tube magic. Your opinions will be appreciated.
phaelon
tvad
9,467 posts
 
IMO, the tubed output stage of an amplifier contributes more to the "tube magic" than does the rectification. However, in my system, components with tube rectification have always sounded smoother and less grainy.

So, if was choice, I'd choose tube rectification.
albertporter's avatar
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albertporter
4,927 posts
 
Agree precisely with Tvad. I prefer having tubes in both places but there are products using both of these technologies that I love.

In the end it's about how that product delivers the music in your system. If ask to rate "the best" power amps my list would include VTL 750, Lamm ML 2.1 and Classe Omega mono's. All very different and all world class.
phaelon OP
1,038 posts
 
Thanks for your thoughts and advice guys. Based on the response I got from my "New Audio Frontiers thread" I didn't even try to get specific. I appreciate it.
lewhite
156 posts
 
Basically in a class a or b amp you are listening to the power supply modualited by an input signal. in other words the powersupply is the floor and its supposed to be flat and level. IMO filtering makes more differnce. RALPH.....RALPH!!!
hifitime
715 posts
 
If your looking for punch and impact in the bass,solid state rectifiers may do.But if you like all the excellent highs,mid range and good bass that you could listen to all day,it usually takes tube rectification. Tube rectifiers give you all the pluses that most tube amplifier people look for.Tube rectification is my preferred way to go.
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