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single ended tetrode, GTA-SE40
The last time we asked the tube-or-transistor question was almost three years ago (see the results <A HREF="http://www.stereophile.com/showvote.cgi?40">here</A>). So, we're curious if reader opinion has shifted when it comes to tube versus solid state amplifier technology.
I currently listen through a pentode-mode 5881-equipped 100W amplifier that drives real-world speakers at realistic sound levels with great wodges of dynamics and detail. SE tube amplifiers may offer more purity and insight into the music, but the requirement for speakers with rather special attributes in the sensitivity department limits choice and demands the acceptance of interesting colorations (in my limited experience with friends' systems). Since converting to tubes, I enjoy music through my system more, and even CDs sound good. By the way, the amplifier currently in use is a Marshall 9200 dual-monoblock guitar amp (sub-$1k US).
I chose "Other" because I think the 7591As in my '63 Fisher 500B are pentodes. My girlfriend in college gave this amp to me because she didn't know what it was. I was immediately impressed when I hooked it up and turned it on---not only by the glorious, wonderful sound that came out of my cheap Infinity speakers, but by the mere fact that the 30-year-old amp worked at all after sitting in the trunk of a Civic for three years. It's now five years later, I have a real career, and an eye on that shiny Sonic Frontiers rig at the local hi-fi shop . . . That's right, folks, a 25-year-old Generation Xer who's not only into high-end, but tubes and vinyl as well.
I have always had solid-state because of the price per watt ratio and the unavailability of efficient speakers. But now that I am older, I am going with tubes but not single ended. The low watt, low current restrictions of single-ended triodes can handle the high dynamics of the music I listen to.
Convenience, longevity and fidelity now very clsoe to tubes makes SS the only choice for me. I get tired of trying to decide if it's time to change tubes and will the new Sovtek be better, etc. Tubes aregreat for tweakers who are never satisfied but enjoy the journey. I too love their sound but they are just not for me. Also, few tubes do bass right. Those that do cost a fortune.
With synergistic equipment single-ended triode is a hard combination to beat. My wife is now in this camp. She loves it. I love it. Female and male vocalists are there; harmonic rightness; liquid; musical; natural warmth; and they will do Hendrix and large scale orchestra with the right ancillaries.
Tubes are like Vinyl. . Once you allow yourself to overcome the stigma of being ruled a "Non-Conformist" by the mass marketed masses, You'll understand why tubes and vinyl have both endured the attempts to kill them off by the manufacturers and their marketing cronnies! Viva La Tubes!