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Horns, SET and VFET

Tillerman

Tillerman

Active Member
Has anyone here done a listening test comparing a SET (tube) amp and VFET (SS) amp on their Klipsch or other horn speakers?

FYI, I run Chorus and a Sony TAN-5550 VFET amp. Since one of the characteristics of VFET amps is their triode like sound, I am curious about the aforementioned comparison.:scratch2:
 
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Have you listened to a SET amplifier, yet?

I've never heard the Sony VFET mentioned, but I think one has to actually listen to directly heated single-ended triode amplifier to get a idea of the sound, and if they will even like it.

If the Sony VFET has triode like sound with good strong tight bass response and good overall bandwidth/power, I'd be happy right there.

But it has a triode like sound...that doesn't mean it is a triode sound. That's why I think one needs to listen to a single-ended triode amp...whatever be it....45/2A3/300B..etc...
 
Mike,
No, I have not. That was why I asked the question. From my web research, it seems that most horn owners have listened to one or the other, but not both in a direct comparison.
I have compared a Scott 299B and Heath W5-Ms to my VFET amp, and heard subtle differences. I live in a rural area and to date, have not found some SET's to try out. If I get the chance, I will definitely do so.
BTW, I am very happy with my EW restored TAN-5550. I love the sound of my system, but I am always on the lookout for the next level!:music:
 
Hi Glenn,
Yes it would. I am pondering a kit someday. Perhaps the Bottlehead Paramounts in 300B. But I would love to hear a decent SET first.
 
No but my experience between JFET amps and tube amps is that the JFET sound stage will be set back further than a tube amp will. The JFET or VFET will have a cooler, tighter sound. Which is better comes down to personal taste. :music:
 
Tillerman said:
Mike,
No, I have not. That was why I asked the question. From my web research, it seems that most horn owners have listened to one or the other, but not both in a direct comparison.
I have compared a Scott 299B and Heath W5-Ms to my VFET amp, and heard subtle differences. I live in a rural area and to date, have not found some SET's to try out. If I get the chance, I will definitely do so.
BTW, I am very happy with my EW restored TAN-5550. I love the sound of my system, but I am always on the lookout for the next level!:music:
Click to expand...

Your not to far from me!

I am the next level!

SET12

I once owned a Yamaha C2,B2
 
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