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Do you remember the particular SE amps you have heard? I certainly wouldn't characterise a good SE amp as sounding forward,quite the reverse in fact,certainly in comparison to a lot of sand amps.To my ears,a good SE amp has a liquid,organic mid and top that engage you on an emotional level in a way I've never heard a solid state amp equal.Not that I'm a valve luddite you understand,I just find valves sound better than anything else I've heard so far.I have heard PP amps sound forward in the way you describe,quite a few in fact,but good ones can be very nice indeed.In fact the direct coupled amp driving my stats is PP,though strangely it sounds like an SE amp,and is the best sounding amp I've ever heard by quite a margin.There's something to be said for getting rid of output trannies!
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Thanks Again Ali,
No I do not recall the names of the SE amps I have heard-I think it was the Heathrow show in 2002 and Bristol Show in 2004 or 2005. I have not taken any interest in any new products as I have had no reason to change. however, I am glad to hear that you have found them to sound as good as any, if not better.
A number people have said to me that SE is the way forward. Do you agree?
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Most definately.SE does things no other type of amp can match IMO,bar the direct-coupled amp I have in prototype form,but that is a specialised amp,and not many people would be comfortable with speaker cables carrying 2kV trailing along the floor! Don't know whereabouts you are,but you would be most welcome to come and have a listen anytime.I have both SE and PP valves,and also the direct-coupled jobbie,when I get round to repairing the panel in the Acorns,and even a high-power sand amp (Musical Fidelity A370) though that will be up for sale soon I think.Great amp,but I have now moved out of my place in Leeds and now am with my partner in Dunfermline,so now have far too much hi-fi.Some will have to go!
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Thanks Ali,
I am in Merseyside, so quite a fair distance away. Thanks for the offer.
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You're welcome.You could attend the forthcoming Owston do,which would give you an excellent idea of what valves are all about.
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