Game, SET, Match

I amazed and then not surprised. Contradiction? Perhaps. I am amazed at how many audiophiles do not embrace SETs (Single Ended Triode) amps. I first thought it was because of their low wattage. Take the Classic 16.2. For $2000 you get 9 watts, that is, in Phase Linear 400 terms, $223 bucks a watt. Hardly a bargain. Moreover, how many of us have speakers that could drive large rooms with just 9 watts. So I am not surprised at its small customer base.

If 9 watts won't work for you, there is the Ming Da MC 3008-A, which I have blogged about ad nauseum. Now that is 40 watts per channel. So why has this not caught on? Its $54 bucks a watt. But what's with the weird sci fi tube? So, I am not surprised it has a small customer base.

How about the Ming Da MC 84C - that is $40 a watt - but a great entry point - less than $600. But at only 13 watts per channel, it may be great for my den, but not for my system. So, I am not surprised at its small customer base.

What a shame. Single Ended Triodes offer just spectacular sound: deep wide bass, wide open west midrange and seductive highs. If you have never experienced one, its time you pony up and at least give one a try. You will not be disappointed and watt for watt, you will be competing against some amps costing over $20,000.

There I go again, talking about over-priced audio. I just could not help myself. The $20,000 amp is $375 bucks a watt.