Sonic differences between an OTL and a Transformer coupled amp?

[TheAnalogman]

Are there any? I've researched some online, and of course got totally opposite "facts" Which is more tubey, etc. I have AKG 702s and Beyerdynamic 880/600. Is one inherently better? Thanks!

 

[TheAnalogman]

Well, lo and behold I found that there is a SET asylum and a OTL asylum subforum over at the audioasylum boards. Of course there are 1 bazillion threads to wade through too, lol. What I've learned is that apparently a low powered OTL amp will not drive low impedance headphones well, but should have no problem with phones that have ~200ohm ratings and up. I received a couple of emails from tube amp designers stating the same. As far as sound sigs go, as a general rule it seems that the OTL amps lean towards smooth, full body, and more relaxed, vice SET amps which are more dynamic, forward, with better attack.

 

[33&athird]

Well, lo and behold I found that there is a SET asylum and a OTL asylum subforum over at the audioasylum boards. Of course there are 1 bazillion threads to wade through too, lol. What I've learned is that apparently a low powered OTL amp will not drive low impedance headphones well, but should have no problem with phones that have ~200ohm ratings and up. I received a couple of emails from tube amp designers stating the same. As far as sound sigs go, as a general rule it seems that the OTL amps lean towards smooth, full body, and more relaxed, vice SET amps which are more dynamic, forward, with better attack.

Hm, very interesting. Thanks for the reply post, I had no idea myself, but it's a cool thing to think about, I keep wanting to design a headphone amp, but always get caught with semantics (better to do it "right" the first time). I would think it makes sense with OTL, since tubes normally perfer higher loads.

Funny thing is, between the two, and what they "should sound like", I think either would work, depending on taste, I suppose that's why there is so much discussion:yes:

 

[TheAnalogman]

Hm, very interesting. Thanks for the reply post, I had no idea myself, but it's a cool thing to think about, I keep wanting to design a headphone amp, but always get caught with semantics (better to do it "right" the first time). I would think it makes sense with OTL, since tubes normally perfer higher loads.

Funny thing is, between the two, and what they "should sound like", I think either would work, depending on taste, I suppose that's why there is so much discussion:yes:

I'm sure you are correct on that! I'm dyin' to hear a high powered (~1 watt) OTL headphone amp! I already have, and really enjoy a transformer amp (the WooAudio 6), but still.......you know. . I can't just fork out a grand for the WooAudio 2 without prior listening.

 

[Vaughn]

Something like a Darkvoice 336 is OTL and quite affordable, although I'm not sure what the power output is. It uses a 6AS7G/6080 output tube and a 6SN7 input(if memory serves). I had one for awhile and used it with a variety of phones. I was particularly tasty with AKG 340's and Senn HD 580/600/650.

The 336 isn't made anymore but there is a current model, I think...

 

[dogwan]

Not much experience but....

I would say your on the mark.

I have an Antique Sound Lab- MG Head OTL that I picked up for cheap on Ebay. IIRC it was around $140 and the seller through in some tubes for rolling. It's a neat little amp that can switch between OTL and the output transformers.

Using my 250 ohm DT-880's I find the OTL mode smooth and luscious. In output transformer mode there is more energy and dynamics.