Setup: I bought THX 789 for the massive output of idk 6W/32ohms, but whenever I try to use my Sundara/Modhouse Argon/HD600/Arya V2/...whatever, I cannot reach decent listening levels in terms of db without getting this scratching/hissing noise in the background ... I think it's distortion. (DAC I use: Geshelli labs - J2, set to max volume) Settings: With an XLR output, gain setting level at 2/3 and the volume knob set to 2-4 o'clock, hearing distortion from a 250-350$ THX amp shouldn't be a thing, should it? With somewhat hard to drive headphones, I'm not reaching 70db, but I can already hear this godforsaken noise on all tracks without a constant stream of sound. If you dare to up the volume past 4 o'clock, or past 12 on gain setting 3/3, this noise becomes so loud, it might as well be an additional instrument Music: The tracks I usually listen to involve so few instruments, that you don't have a constant stream of sound. (e.g. Creep - Lena Hall) I'd love to get some feedback!...
Jun 5, 2024
Yes, it colors the signal in a (usually) pleasant way, but why do you want extra coloration/"a touch of tube character" at all? The musicians and producers already know the amount of tube that sounds good in the track. Then it's the signal path's responsibility to be clean, not dirty on purpose. Slapping tube on everything you hear seems unintuitive
But I understand that some people want it and love it, and I'm all for that. Like I said before, whatever floats your boat. I was just curious why :)
Yes, it colors the signal in a (usually) pleasant way, but why do you want extra coloration/"a touch of tube character" at all? >>Because it sounds good.<< The musicians and producers already know the amount of tube that sounds good in the track. >> Not always, excessive compression, dynamic range reduction, loudness level enhancement and just bad recordings are common<< Then it's the signal path's responsibility to be clean, not dirty on purpose. Slapping tube on everything you hear seems unintuitive. >>In many instances it smooths harshness adds richness and lovely juiciness but can also sound clear and glassy. I as well as many other enjoy those characteristics. Having different amps for different sources "solid state, hybrid , tube" is the way to go. I have many. Glad I could help<<
As to "why", for certain kinds of music, some like the "smooth" sound transitions.