Solid-state components, by contrast, are extremely rugged and can last for years with very little maintenance. Solid-state tube replacements also provide more consistent performance over time.

There's a "roundness" to tube sound that solid-state gear never equals. Tubes are less forgiving about mismatches, so to get the best out of a tube amp it must be used with just the right speaker.

In the debate over tube amps vs. solid-state amps, Part 1 discussed the differences in applications. Part 2 concentrates on the difference between transistors—MOSFETs and bipolar junctions ...

Forget the stereotype of tube amps delivering woolly, soft bass—this one nails macro and microdynamics, holding its own with sub-$1000 solid-state contenders like the S17 Pro. The visceral subbass in ...

Something for everyone? The Digbeth Foundry range offers low-end amplification solutions from the compact 30-watt DBF30 combo ...

Despite the oldest solid state audio circuitry now qualifying for a pension and a bus pass where this is being written, the thermionic tube retains a foothold in the world of audio — cherishe… ...

Busy musical passages also could get a little congested at volume. Despite only a 38 watt output in a tube design, there was a decent amount of bass output; control was softer than with solid state ...

The additional bass isn't loud and boomy, but instead it's warm and full, inviting you to stay and listen a while. And that I did: I had a hard time putting the Cypress prototype down even when I ...