High End Audio Amplifiers
High end audio amplifier converts small signals into larger signals to a level suitable for loudspeaker without increasing the level of undesirable noises and distortion. Since there is no unique view which amplifier is the best it is recommendable to be well informed over different types of amplifiers which are commonly used by audiophiles and their characteristics as well as over their advantages and disadvantages. Besides amplifiers are sometimes also used preamplifiers although they are practically not needed for other than volume control in high end digital audio systems.
Audiophiles commonly use vacuum-tube (valve) and solid-state amplifiers. However, both types of amplifiers have their advantages and disadvantages. Vacuum-tube amplifier is still preferred by some audiophiles and is believed to provide a “warmer” valve sound. On the other hand, vacuum-tube amplifiers are less reliable and less powerful, generate more heat and are generally more expensive in compare to solid-state based amplifiers.
As you see both vacuum-tube and solid-state based amplifier have their advantages and disadvantages. If you cannot make up you mind between both types you should perhaps consider a hybrid amplifier technology which combines solid-state and vacuum-tube technologies and is very popular among audiophiles as well.
Since reviews of amplifiers are of little help because audiophiles are commonly pro-vacuum-tube or pro-solid-state based amplifiers you are highly recommended to listen to both types from several different manufacturers before purchase.