Tube Amp vs Solid State - What's the Difference?

[@sweetwater]

To each their own! If you have any questions let us know in the comments 👇 Thanks for watching, don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe!

[@將軍英雄MILITARYHERO]

Demo would-been easier than all of the explanations 🙏

[@ZL1LoVeR]

Can y’all make a similar video on NuTube and Hybrid Amps?

[@johnbertotti8815]

@@將軍英雄MILITARYHERO The problem is a lot of the tube goodness is in things you won't get in a demo. The way it fills a room, SS doesn't quite get there yet, the response you feel while playing and even the way they compress can be hard to capture the differences of in a recording. You would literally have to be in the same room with both, playing and listening, and have the experience to even notice some of it. A new player may not be able to feel the response the way an experienced player feel it. The way they can change with pick dynamics isn't something a newer player just does and understands. Never the less it was a great explanation. I am firmly in the tube camp but SS is coming on strong and I have both and hybrids, get what works for you and ignore anyone telling you it is wrong simply because it is SS or Tube or HYbrid etc. Any of them can sound great.

[@mcintoshdev]

Man, I just love how clearly you explain things!

[@metallion0738]

@@將軍英雄MILITARYHERO . This is an explanation not a demo, there are plenty of videos out there for what you're asking for bro.

[@mikezaite1335]

I don't believe I have ever heard a better explanation and comparison of tube versus solid state. Excellent job Mitch, a great video from someone who really is versed on the subject .

[@portwill]

Just what I wanted to write. Perfect video.

[@steveg.3022]

I’m an electrical engineer and a budding guitar player. This explanation on tube and transistor amps is spot on. Very good at covering a lot of material objectively. Nice job. I subscribed to this Sweetwater channel on the basis of this one video.

[@thegreatcerebral]

It really isn't though. There is a lot of previous knowledge needed to understand everything here. If you have zero knowledge then a lot of this will be over your head.

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

@@thegreatcerebral I hear ya. Sometimes it's hard to say where one should start when it comes to learning about amps. No big deal. Modern amps today are pretty kick ass ya know. Rock your socks off with sick new amps like rolands or bosses! Those oranges are pretty dope too! You can nab em for like 200-300 right now.

[@SykeThrone]

Versed lol I KNOW NOTHING N NOW I DO:,)

[@jeffhodge7333]

Sweetwater does everything right. This video is a perfect model for everyone who posts videos. It's clear, articulate, and concise, without a stitch of annoying background music or obnoxious bass backbeat. Thanks, Mitch.

[@larslarsman]

And not one note of music or sound from either type amp in the 10 minute vid. Waste of time. I was not paid to write this comment.

[@CliveBarnesMusic]

I've been watching gear channels since the dawn of KZbin and Mitch is hands down the best. His videos are extremely informative, concise and delivered in a way that's easy to understand. The guy is a legend and a breath of fresh air. Long may you run Mitch Gallagher...!!!

[@patrickcarroll1754]

I just love Mitch and everything he's about.

[@jimduffy9773]

I got to meet him at a Gear Fest a couple of years ago. I just wanted to say thanks for all the good content that he has added over the years. He is the same great person as you see here.

[@ChaosAttractor13]

He’s the Ron Swanson of Music.

[@correametal]

Mitch always makes me want to listen and watch the whole video. HIs clear and pleasant voice along with the obvious great knowledge and the way he manages to explain things are way beyond excellent!!! Thanks Mitch, thanks Sweetwater!!!

[@SynZ777]

The difference between SS and tube these days is so marginal it's not even worth it for me to empty my bank for a tube amp anymore. I moved all of the internals of my Katana amp to an empty Marshall head and people always say how great it sounds 😂 Never got those kinds of compliments when it was in the Katana amp.

[@SynZ777]

@@joeyvanostrand3655 I’ve posted the images elsewhere on the internet and I really don’t want to post them here for privacy reasons. But all I did was desolder the pots and extend them with wire so I could connect them to the front. There are some pseudo pots I put into because there aren’t enough on the Katana to fill all the holes. Cab resonance and banks are missing but it’s fine since I only use the panel. The rear IO I got lazy so I just routed spots for the FX loop and foot switch. I might clean it up in the future.

[@AuntAlnico4]

@@joeyvanostrand3655 yeah, prevent privacy infringement !?😂

[@officialmetalwill]

You're obviously either deaf or you've never actually played a tube amp.

[@officialmetalwill]

Also, you're lying. A Katana would not fit into any Marshall tube chassis.

[@SynZ777]

@@officialmetalwill Wrong and wrong. The Katana PCBs are not as big as you think they are.

[@Frommel2000]

I've been using solid-state amps since 1986. I always get compliments about my sound. Don't feel the need to go back to tubes.

[@gabeziegler6612]

what amps do you use?

[@JENDALL714]

When you are rocking out on stage, no one cares or can tell the difference.

[@alexmurphy5289]

@@JENDALL714 No one cares other than the guitar player lol

[@matthewschiavi7353]

I bought my KMD way back in my formative years because it was loud & cheap. My playing has kinda adapted to make it sound good.

[@FoxHound-ch1yy]

I've been through three tube amps in my time. After the last one I owned crapped out on me mid song at an open mic night I was performing at with a friend, I am off the tube amp bandwagon for good. Took it to my local store, got it sent away to be looked at and they couldn't figure out what was wrong with it..... Lucky it was still under warranty because god knows what it would have cost me... Reliability is far more important to me now than outdated technology that is just destined to fail. I now play through a Fender Champion 100 and it's the best amp I've ever owned. Modelling effects in it are nice, can easily switch between the two channels with the foot switch and it's clean tones are beautiful and rich sounding when the eq is dialled in nicely. The tweed setting on it is magic to play with. Truly wonderful tone. I primarily play blues and the main pedal I use is the Boss BD-2, I put that pedal in front of the amp and i'm in blues rock heaven. It just concludes for me that tube amps aren't all they're cracked up to be. Modern day solid states are just as good and a thousand times more reliable. In no way am I trying to tell any of you not to buy a tube amp if you want one, but for any of you that don't have any experience owning and using them, be warned, they can be a royal pain in the fuckin' ass. I'll never go back to tube amps as long as I live after what happened with my last one.

[@vincentl.9469]

what puts some people off SS is that it cannot be repaired. Depending on where you live, you may not find it too easy to find a competing person to repair/restore tube amps...

[@petezy8892]

I’m just looking for that rich and full tone that a tube amp has. Maybe I don’t need to actually get a tube amp to get that tone. If the difference is marginal and the reliability is better, I’ll probably just go solid state. Thank you for sharing

[@maakwatherrie]

I play in a new (loud) band. I have a mesa rectoverb 2x12 combo. Against my and the bassists advice the second guitarist purchased a bass katana 2x12 because it sounds great on internet and at home. The first time we played as a band with the Boss transistor transistor amp only some high hiss could be heard from the Boss. Didn't cut through the mix at all. Then he tried a fender hotrod (from the rehearsal room) and all was fine.

[@KHolt22]

I dont believe I've ever heard a more concise, in-depth, and too the point explanation of anything ever.

[@mxgr194]

I've tried double blind tests between modelers and tube amps and although people could hear a difference, they could NOT pick the tube amp out. Inconclusive. If you can't get a good tone out of a modeler, the gear is NOT the problem.

[@oscarchua526]

Says a lot when they claim to hear a difference but can't pick which is making it hahaha...Totally conclusive and I rest my case.

[@charleswisconsin9196]

@@oscarchua526 no, that only concludes that their is a difference, not which is better.

[@lupo10]

I have a Marshall DSL401 40w valve amp and a Marshall MG50w solid state and amp that I bend together. Initially I hooked up both to my pedalboard so I could practice with the MG while I waiting on my valves to warm up but I found that blended, they sounded great together.

[@TheRosswise]

Get a good solid-state amp that convincingly sounds like a tube amp. All of the positives of both.

[@irun2sanaxox]

I doubt solid state will ever sound like tubes

[@TheRosswise]

@@irun2sanaxox Try out one of the better solid-state amps. I would recommend Peavey Transtube amps. I have tried the Boss Katana, but there is quite a bit of fizz on the Brown channel. To me the Transtube amps from Peavey, specifically the Bandit and XXL, have gotten the closest. The Marshall Valvestate amps are really good too.

[@irun2sanaxox]

@@TheRosswise I don’t have those types of amps tho, I have headphone amps cause I’m into head-if I just listen to music but I have the Cayin ha-1a mkii which is a really good amp & the smsl thx amp which is good but too clinical/ digital sounding I also have other solid states but I dunno if solid states could replace tubes

[@TheRosswise]

@@irun2sanaxox Well yeah I figured you didn't have these types of amps. Which is why you doubt ss could ever replace tubes. If you had one of these amps, you wouldn't doubt :p

[@irun2sanaxox]

@@TheRosswise it’s probably different in the world of guitar amps, in the world of headphones the SS amps are just very precise & clinical/ sterile which can be nice but not all the time, some other SS can also be smooth but still nothing like a tube amp

[@antoniomonteiro1203]

It is a myth that tubes generate even harmonics and solid state odd harmonics. The subject is complex enough to not be easily explained, but I'll give it a try. A general idea is: symmetrical clipping produces odd harmonics, like in a push pull valve or transistor power amplifier; asymmetrical clipping (or other nonlinearities) produces even harmonics, like in a Tube Screamer with one diode for the positive half wave and two for the negative part, or a pre-amp valve where the signal excursion for the positive and negative halves is not symmetrical. There is almost always both even and odd harmonics when any type of distortion occurs, but there is the predominance stated above. A way to check harmonic contents is with a DAW, using a spectrum display, which is very common nowadays. With a guitar sound (signal) it is not so easy because it changes with time. But for instance a relatively distorted one note sound that lasts several seconds can be observed.

[@juanmelgar152]

No one has ever explained me so well this differences. I am going all in on solid state for my situation preferences. Thanks

[@johnabbottphotography]

What a brilliant, no bullshit, here's-what-you-need-to-know, explainer. Thanks, Sweetwater. This is why I try to buy as much gear as I can from you.

[@solomonstello]

They earned a new subscriber, me!

[@HouseMerlot]

Wow...I was expecting a real snoozefest but that was a great video...jam packed with rapid fire info. Great job!!

[@kristopher6031]

Before I got my Marshall tube amp, I had a boss katana. Awesome solid state amp!

[@aliengrey6052]

And isn’t that the statement. Exactly the same as me! Kantana is good for the money. Marshall JVM 210 c I have is a gods amp! Hear the thunder roar!!!!!!! Thor’s hammer 🔨

[@rayjingloryproductions3770]

@@aliengrey6052 I'm using an Acoustic 200 watt solid state Bass amp Bi-Amped into a 150 watt solid state peavey tnt150. My Acoustic amp is partnered with an acoustic 6 by 10 speaker cabinet. The tnt has a 15 inch black widow speaker. The combined total of 350 watts of WALL SHAKING POWER. I LOVE the sound this set up gets.

[@jboy8735]

I had the same amp to sold it and got my Marshall dsl 40

[@kikojavier3804]

im using boss katana now. i hope to buy a marshall one day

[@lukas6610]

Im not sure if i should get a smaller tube amp like marshall dsr5 or a katana is it worth it to get a low watage tube amp because im not if it still sounds so good

[@BryanTheBand]

Great video, it provides plenty of clarity for folks that are just beginning to explore what it means to find "their tone" Personally, I use all three amp types (Tube, Solid State, Hybrid) for a variety of situations. In my band, I use a Blues Junior (15 watt Tube amp, for those that don't already know) at the edge of breakup on the preamp and the master turned up almost to 90% of the way to really drive the power tubes. A moderate pedalboard is in front of that. My backup amp is a Quilter Tone Block 201 (200 Watt Solid State amp head) which I can easily transport between home and the band stuff as It's small enough for a backpack or messenger bag and only weighs a whopping 4 lbs. This video references Quilters, and they are correct -tonally, you can get a very "tube-like" sound (and even similar feel) from Quilters. It's an all analog Solid State signal path, and it's incredibly versatile genre wise. Can be pretty quiet at home or massively loud with the turn of a dial. At home, I mostly use a Boss Katana 50 MkII (50 Watt Modeling amp, with power options of 50 Watt, 25 Watt, or even 0.5 Watts) this little thing is pretty much everywhere so I'd be shocked if folks haven't already heard of this. Anyway, it's fantastic for home use, and is portable enough and loud enough for gigs too. I mainly use this as my amp for when my kids are asleep. The 0.5 watt option is fantastic for those that need to play quietly but don't particularly love wearing headphones in order to do that. It can be used as a pedal platform, or can be used without physical pedals using saved presets. It's a great option for a number of reasons, but especially good for folks that haven't found their sound yet and want to experiment. TLDR: Each of these amp types have their place, and we are in a golden age for guitar with the plethora of GOOD, affordable options available.

[@herfamusic]

This video is perfect! Everything is extremely well organized and explained. Bravo & thank you! 👏👏👏

[@alexmurphy5289]

Mitch is a legend. So articulate and a phenomenal player. Cheers man

[@johnnyguitar335]

Excellent explanation of tube versus solid state. A worthy listen for someone considering shopping for an amp. worth the listen especially for newer players but good for more experienced players as well. Thanks!

[@cygnus-studios]

Without a doubt, the best comparison of tube versus solid-state guitar amplifiers I’ve ever run across. As always, kudos to Sweetwater and of course Mitch!

[@Doggieman1111]

Wow fantastic, this was a much deeper dive than I expected

[@jocksam6634]

Finally somebody explained it in a way I can understand it being technical like I am and understanding electronics the last 50 years. Usually they try to teach you electronics like your a novice and make little effort to explain the question you asked in the first place.

[@LRHutch]

That was great info Mitch. I have both types. Fender Mustang GT100 and a Peavey Classic 30 (purchased form Sweetwater). While I like the GT100 for all of it's modeling and effects, My go to amp is the Classic 30. Also, the GT100 didn't have the tonal spectrum that I wanted so I made a head out of it and built a enclosed cabinet with a 15" speaker, that made a world of difference. Have a great day Mitch.

[@craigsanderson3722]

If Sweetwater pays you based on what you know and your ability to convey that, I don’t see how they can afford you lol. Great explanation! Thanks.

[@peterjones4621]

Hi Mitch, the differences between the two was explained very well, the best I've ever heard. Great job and very well presented. Thank you Mitch.

[@pageluvva]

I'm here for the "Tube amps only Dude!". Y'all are hilarious.

[@DigiPal]

I really like my old SS Fender, with its perfect drive at all level, even at, like, 0,5 on the volume knob, if not less. Always has a nice drive, no mater how much volume I need.

[@LifeProducersofNewJerseyLLC]

Great explanation. But kids, don't get suckered into the tube mentality. What he does not tell you is that each tube amp, because of the simplicity and the differences in tubes, can sound different from one another with the same models. Most studios pick tube amps after seaching existing models because of their sounds, many of them are modified as well. So when a particular artist says that they used a tube amp on a record, often that is the in house studio tube amp. That amp was chosen from other same models because it sounds better than the rest. You as a consumer are buying a tube amp off the shelf or online, don't have the ability to search for that amp like a studio would. There are now many youtube videos of people putting solid state next to tube amps for comparisons and their is little or no difference between tube and solid state. Be real careful with spending a lot for a tube amp.

[@cruzdearrastiamusic7749]

This is such a great video!! Thank you. I play mostly jazz and am a beginner and was curious if I should switch to tube but I didn't really think it was what I wanted. After this video, solid state is for me. Thank you

[@copinginblue2022]

I've had that same solid state orange head for a year now and it's the best head I have ever played through. Will never go tube. Thank you sweet water for this awesome video!!!

[@guloguloguy]

THANK YOU, MITCH, FOR A VERY DETAILED, AND WELL EXPLAINED OVERVIEW, OF THESE TWO "TYPES" OF AMPLIFIERS! MUCH APPRECIATED!!!

[@adamdagosto570]

This is MG's best video he's every made. Period. Mitch...drop the mic!

[@rickmorales2113]

Great presentation, so informative and helpful in making the right choice, many thanks!

[@godzilla964]

Solid State amps are for the stage. Tube amps are for the studio.

[@fredrice415]

Excellent dissertation contrasting the tube and solid state technologies. The thoughtful and thorough review and comparison was most helpful:) BTW been a Sweetwater customer since 2012. The support has not only been there from the beginning , but continues to this 'day with a recent purchase:)

[@DeadKoby]

6:30.......Transistors can wear out and fail..... I fix amps, blown transistors do exist, but they usually have a VERY VERY long life.

[@tjsogmc]

Yes, transistors can and do fail. But more often than not, their failure is because something else went wrong like a failed diode or the owner used the wrong ohm rating on the cab. There are transistors out there that have been chugging along since the 70's and they are just fine (can't say the same for capacitors!). Overall, transistors are much more reliable and maintenance free than tubes.

[@ltfringr]

Love my tubes. Sounds great, infinitely repairable, lasts a lifetime, sounds exactly how I want it to.

[@guloguloguy]

I REALLY DO APPRECIATE SWEETWATER!!! THANKS, FOR ALL THAT YOU DO!!!

[@sweetwater]

😎👍

[@michael_caz_nyc]

I used to think this was all B.S. as I like my Roland S.S. Amp. I hadn't had a Tube Amp in a long time. Purchased a blackface 65 Fender Princeton Reverb reissue from Sweetwater Dec 2017. Suddenly My pickups, and the feel under-my-fingers, and all my Guitar-pedals came to life = No Comparison = Tone on another stratosphere. oNe LovE from NYC

[@raulperez2308]

i mean...roland cubes suck ass so it's no wonder you found an improvement. quilter and dv mark, for instance, make great solid state guitar amps

[@robertmurray2535]

You are absolutely right. I have 3 marshalls and I won't buy SS. If you like it but. Just don't think they are as good. Big thing I notice us everyone if my guitars sound different with my tube amps which is why I have different guitars. With solid state every guitar sounds the exact same cause your just hearing the patch in the effects. If ya like great. I prefer tube amps

[@yestoES355]

Handwired is the real “tube sound”. I also thought it was BS until I set a 65 Princeton to the 64 handwired.

[@michael_caz_nyc]

@@yestoES355 I honestly prefer the non hand wired. I needed: Max Clean Headroom. The 64 breaks-up at lower volume levels. I even checked with Fender directly. Money was not the decision for me. I absolutely Love my 65 . . . It has that SRV, Mark Knopfler, Nile Rodgers - Sparkle & Chime.

[@michael_caz_nyc]

@@robertmurray2535 Agree 100% ( however ) I did like (not love) the Cleans on the Yamaha THR-30 and the Quilter . . . but my Fender Princeton is "Orgasmic" - for the Tone I want.

[@jasonstallworth]

Thank you, Mitch! Learned a ton through this video.

[@caliman5547]

Great presentation Mitch. I now understand at least 100 % more about the differences between tube vs ss than I did 10 min ago...

[@l07smitty]

This gentleman is a great speaker and presenter. Talent. Very nice job

[@rien2080]

Thank you so much for the clear and detailed explanation. I'm wondering whether to invest in a solid state amp instead of a tube amp because I don't feel like wanting to spend more for replacement tubes. Although, it is very tempting especially Marshall's origin tube amp combo

[@ParanormalMetalMan]

I hear ya.. my bugera 6260 120 watt tube amp head fried out and I've been in the market too looking around...one thing to keep in mind is that the price of tubes is going to be very expensive due the the Russian Invasion of Ukraine... which has made me strongly considering solid state alternatives

[@RogerThat902]

I learned a lot in these 10 minutes. Thanks for this.

[@pip5528]

I appreciate the lack of tube snobbery in the comments section. Mitch is great as always! Contrary to popular belief, different tubes don't have different frequency response. Mostly just gain and headroom.

[@thesoundpurist]

well, I usually despise the only intent to sell products from marketers but this gentleman is very articulate and summarized the actual facts about SS and tubes characteristics.

[@anthonygonzalez8684]

Brilliant. Important knowledge that was imparted here. Thank you.

[@ToneChaser2001]

I use tubes at home and a iridium on my board to FOH for anything live. I will always favor tube but having a clean tone live is essential no matter how dirty you make it

[@showspotter]

there couldnt possibly be a better explanation anywhere. bravo.

[@cindarella1100]

Well Said Mr Gallagher; I like the way you described the internal factors; this is a very personal issue; with all the new technology that's come out, solid state isn't quite the same as it used to be; very timely topic 👍 thank you; from; Scranton, Pennsylvania

[@cookieman876]

I noticed how superior tube amps are while learning Last Day Under the Sun by Volbeat. The chorus sounds like a muddy distorted in a bad way mess on solid states. Hard to hear every string independently and just sounds like you’re slamming an open E. Now on a full tube amp it’s a fairly mean chug sounds that’s precise and clear. I prefer tubes for this reason

[@kabukimanindahouse]

volbeat... could've named so many good bands and examples, but no.

[@cookieman876]

@@kabukimanindahouse Outlaw Gentlemen and Shady Ladies is a fantastic album by Volbeat. The songs Our Loved Ones, Ecotone, My Body and Dead but Rising are all killer songs. Im not as much into their newer stuff but that album slaps. The intro to Our Loves Ones is undeniably awesome. And I know you “ honestly don’t care “ but yea crank that album not on headphones and you’ll see it’s pretty good

[@dingalarm]

This is an excellent, factual comparison between tube and solid-state amps ! I especially like how Mitch states that choice of amp is purely down to personal preference 👍👌🙂 A few suggestions: 1) In the same way that preamp and power amp tubes are mentioned (e.g. 12AX7, EL84, 6V6 etc), the same should also have been done for (solid-state) transistors & ICs (e.g. BC548, 2N3904, TL072, 2N3055 etc). 2) An explanation should have been given as to why a tube amp is louder than a solid-state amp with the *same* power rating (e.g. 15WRMS) - I understand that this is mainly due to the extra harmonics present in the sound from the tube amp, and possibly due to higher sensitivity (dB/W) speakers being used in tube amps. A+++ Well done, Mitch!

[@rodolfomisao123]

Is that possible to make a JCM 800 solid state model? Are there electric schematics on internet?

[@dingalarm]

@@rodolfomisao123 Yes, it may be possible, but of course, a lot of work will be required (obtaining parts, designing the PCB, manufacturing the PCB, soldering, drilling the enclosure, troubleshooting etc). Schematics are available on the internet (search for JCM800 solid-state). I can't give website names, as my comments keep getting removed by KZbin.

[@charleswisconsin9196]

@@rodolfomisao123 whatever you do, don't copy the official solid state JCMs. their topology would never sound like the tube ones. instead look for "JCM800 emulator"

[@JonDeth]

*Very well done, but one aspect that wasn't covered properly is the behavior of semiconductors once they have heated up.* A solid-state Class-A/B will in fact change certain characteristics when you crank them for volume, and depending how long that particular amp takes to get hot based on the your input signal, there will be a change in sound. *What is typical is you get a more expressive amplifier that has a sympathetic response to what you are doing such as compressing, drop out a bit then swelling for sustained notes, especially with vibrato, but what is guaranteed is once they are warm enough, they do start to get muddy.* As semiconductors heat up, their conductivity increases and the amp will undoubtedly have been designed with components to stay as linear as possible to maintain the operating settings with thermal stability, but there's only so much that can be done. *I really like a lot about solid-state and also dislike a lot.* Another factor is semiconductors are prone to having a lot of very high, even order harmonics and will undoubtedly be designed for asymmetrical clipping since this is what guarantees more even order than odd order. This is problematic and what seems to sound like "static" or crust even on the bass notes. I have a formal background in electrical/electronics engineering and am working on a design to resolve fundamentally all of this, as well as issues that arise in tube technology as well.

[@HHH-gr5od]

Such a skillful and nice explanation. Cheers

[@honksou7009]

I wish all explanations in youtube were so concise and complete.

[@grimreaper-qh2zn]

Excellent explanation. Just enough technical detail to make understanding where and how the difference occur. Nice presentation. Involving and well listenable to. At the end of the day, as said, ultimately which is best for an individual is a subjective decision (rather like choosing Hi Fi gear). That is where a good Dealership comes in that can demo the gear.

[@THEVATICANTS]

Once again, Mitch explains it in the easiest and best way possible!

[@jffydavy5509]

Outstanding explanation! That explanation helps musicians and home stereo fans understand what they are paying for.

[@vav413]

Clear and concise differences between the two amp types mixed with real-world tone shaping explanations. What an excellent video! I learned a lot, thank you

[@eanroad]

Fantastic vid! Great job Mitch!

[@firedownbelow74]

He’s very knowledgeable. Clear explanation.

[@jimwarner8071]

What an excellent overview. Well done, Mitch. Thx.

[@henri_.leal68]

a VERY important thing while considering amps are the speakers!! two amps can sound the same but put different speakers? Its gonna sound different. ive seen people go through the same amp with different speakers and they were able to nail any tone. So keep that in mind too good video!!

[@davecooper360]

I have some really sweet tube AND solid state amps. I love em both! And I like Mitch's purely objective description of the differences. If you ever see a tube vs solid state flame war.. put it OUT with this video lol!

[@mxaxe5591]

Excellent video! Thanks Mitch & thanks Sweetwater! You guys are the best!🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@eugeneyermakov]

Precise and informative! Considerably enriched my perception of the tech side of the question. Thanks, man! 🙂

[@tjbitt65]

Good explanation. Tubes are great. Newer solid state great. The key is to find what works for you and satisfies your tone requirements.

[@castleanthrax1833]

I have one of each and they're both great. A 100 watt solid state and a 1 watt tube and they're equally loud.

[@dingalarm]

Sorry, that doesn't quite sound right to me 🤔🙄 The 1W tube amp probably sounds equally as loud as the 100W solid-state amp, because it has a better (higher sensitivity) speaker in it 🙂

[@charleswisconsin9196]

watts are watts my friend.

[@castleanthrax1833]

@@charleswisconsin9196 Not when you're talking about "valve watts" and "ss watts". Yes my 100 watt ss amp is louder than my 1 watt valve amp, but valve watts are about 2.5 times louder than ss watts, so your tautology is not only redundant, it's inaccurate.

[@jasonism123]

Thank you so much for this video. With all that explained, I'm getting a solid state amp.

[@s1mp13m4n]

Question for you. I am a beginner player. Play for fun, hobby, therapy. One issue I have with practice amp combos are the small speakers, yet you play at volumes at 85db or quieter. Here is my question, lets say you want a bigger and fuller sound with a 12 inch speaker. In the world of solid state and bedroom/couch volume, does a solid state amp sound the same at low volume as it would at louder volume? For example, would a Marshall MG50 sound the same at volume of 1 and volume 5? I understand tube amps are different but I am talking about low volume use while interested in the fuller sound of a larger speaker.

[@sweetwater]

Hi, s1mp13m4n. A solid state amp will be much more consistent in tone throughout it’s volume range. The main thing that would change is how much the speaker is being driven, which will have some impact on the sound. A solid state or modeling amp can be a great solution for home situations, or a lower wattage tube amp with the speaker size you want. Thanks for your interest! Charlie Davis, Sweetwater Sales Engineer, [phone] ext. 1320, [e-mail]

[@Denvermorgan2000]

The difference a few hundred volts and clean warm sound and money.

[@ianbarcelos]

Sweetwater should review the Orange CR120 Pro someday. Please do it!

[@hanashe4599]

The simple answer is what sounds best for your needs. Modeling/Capturing/Replicating amps replicate tube amps because they sound so good. And all of them as good as some do it are still just a copy and don't truly sound and feel as real as the tube amp. But they have gotten very good. If you are a player who needs a wide variety of tones than there a good choice. If you're a player who creates and wants a more unique tone and uses that for everything in both clean and dirty, than your probably better suited to a tube amp. I realized this years ago while working selling amps and guitars for a former large music chain. (Mars) And at the time Line 6 was king of modeling amps. But for me, I have always liked and looked for my tone. Not someone else's or a million tones. And that has served my playing in every way as a guitarist and songwriter. But I don't do covers and play other peoples stuff. I just write original material. So are you a Jack of all Trades, or master of one? Each player needs to find what works for them.

[@jackarmistead5353]

While I knew most of this info,this video was very informative and well executed. Much appreciated.

[@Tesswrench111]

What a nice video, incredibly informative.

[@hanten10]

There's so many info in it.. Thank you

[@BarkingForBroccoliBG]

I think it is about the sound that you're wanting to get I've found that I can get the sound that I want with an orange crush dirty Channel with gain 1 oclock position . Solid state

[@Aljcook]

Thank you Mitch for sharing this valuable information. I was on the fence about which kind of amp to buy. This definitely helped me.

[@charlesstauffer6806]

Excellent analysis. However, transistors, like capacitators and resistors DO go bad or at least out of spec. I have replaced many transistors over the years that have gone sour for one reason or another, quite often due to age. I have equipment with working, in spec tubes that are 90 plus years old, and I have replaced transistors that are just a couple of years old in similar applications. Transistors ARE generally more reliable for sure, but they are hardly perfect. No criticism implied here, just stating a fact of life.

[@Matoro342]

I wish Mitch did every educational video on Earth.

[@GR8Iam]

excellent salesman, please give him a raise !

[@John-e4p1x]

He is the boss already.

[@tagretz]

for years I was playing a Marshall JTM as a platform for my Boss Me90. It broke and I got a Foxgear TW-100 as a backup: I will never go back to the Marshall!

[@dragonflygs]

I need to watch this more than once. Very thorough description... just lots to take in. Maybe I'll be Mitch Gallagher in my next life...

[@andresvelazquez2360]

The current Peavey Bandit model is a great compromise between both technologies IMO. Tube feel and response (takes pedals like a champ) and solid state flexibility and convenience (power amp attenuation and damping control). Highly recommended!

[@bewusstsein3527]

Really? I thought it was the katana is the real one

[@TheAndyroid]

Peavey Bandits have always been great. A friend of mine has one that is at least 30 years old and it sounds fantastic. A lot of the magic is in the Scorpion speakers. Katana are ok too but not as 'pro' sounding.

[@sid35gb]

@@bewusstsein3527 I own both the Peavey is very different to the Katana. To get a good tone out of the Katana requires an investment in time hooking it up to a pc to get it dialled in the Peavy is old school and fast. Also If you want to deep dive into how tube logic works on the peavy you can deep dive into it online there’s a pdf by peavy explaining how it was developed.

[@PeterDad60]

Years ago out of curiosity I looked into tube amp vs. solid state amp. I read that scientists conducted research using volunteers and sound proof music listening rooms. The volunteers were not told which amps they were listening to in the comparisons. The result of the tests indicated that the tube distortion is preferable to the human ear. So it's the natural distortion of tubes that make human beings prefer them over solid state sound. I'm not feeling very good right now, so even though I did my best I am not confident that I described why humans prefer the output sound from tubes over solid state. I certainly made no attempt to explain why tubes distortion even occurs. But again it is the distortion that tubes introduce into the signal that is what is preferable to the human ear. The lab testing was just a tally of which type of amplifier was voted to be liked more than any other. It was the Tube amplifiers that received the most votes . - Peter age 74

[@PeterDad60]

I want to add that even played clean all amps have a certain amount of natural distortion. This is what I was describing, not all out metal head style distortion. Which of cours tube amps have better all out metal hed distortion than S.S. as well.

[@continuum288]

Great video, Mitch/Sweetwater..

[@sweetwater]

😎👍

[@ukeplaya1]

Great video! Such an interesting history. Thanks for sharing.

[@diggi54]

Best explanation I have ever heard, thanks!

[@u.s.a.198]

Thank you! Very good info and video. I wasn't sure about the a/b class you explained. Thx!

[@MrWholewheat]

This was really informative and sober and neutral. Nice job. This is quality KZbin.

[@2011Matz]

Great to hear an unbiased opinion from someone who is oviously from the tube amp era.

[@roberthoule9693]

Very good information. Thank you!

[@Okla_Soft]

There’s a reason he has an orange crush 120 head behind him, it’s a true solid state amp and it’s so close to the rocker verb in terms of tone that you’d have to be a serious tone geek to not consider going SS. The reliability and cost are a huge factor, but there’s also nothing quite like a genuine tube amp.

[@sid35gb]

The cr120 is a rockerverb same circuit inside just have the tubes replaced with op amps saw an interview with the guy that designed both 😎

[@tonyinhbolero4815]

I own both , nothing can beat Tubes amp trust me , no matter how hard you're try but you will come back pick up the real thing Tubes amp I meant

[@powerArmor9]

What kind of genre music you play sir?

[@sebastianmedina1234]

How does one know when tubes need to be replaced in an amp? Is it basically when the tone changes to something undesirable or do tubes burn out like lightbulbs

[@AuntAlnico4]

I have lots of tube amps and played every day for years and have never needed a tube replacing nor have I had a tube amp fail on me.

[@DrZAmplification]

You’ll notice lack of bottom end first, followed by dull sounding top end second, and fluctuations in volume when a tube is on its last legs. Or they will fail and blow a fuse (arch aka lightning in a bottle, red plate/cherry up, or lose vacuum and die). In the failure case, it’ll be pretty immediate and you will know to change them. In the wearing case, one day you feel like you have lost some volume, and you palm muting will be weak. If you play at low volumes, you may never have to change them out as they won’t be driven enough to wear. Think of them as “tires” on the car. If you are only going for 20mph spins around the block every day, your tires would never wear.

[@thisperfectworld]

pre-amp tubes, the smaller ones, generally last forever. The larger power amp tubes like 6L6, 6v6, EL34, EL84, KT88, KT66; they will wear out. When they begin to fail, the amp will sound terrible. You'll know!

[@satishvasane6812]

@@AuntAlnico4 true said

[@KristianHeartmusic]

Tubes are killer but SS are sooooo reliable so that’s a huge plus, bottom line they both rule an both sound great !!