If there’s anything in audio as subjective or contested as cables, it might be tubes. There are audiophiles that solemnly swear that tube amplifiers are the true path to Audio Nirvana. Then there are those that won’t sway from the sterility of solid-state amplifiers. And there are those that haven’t tasted tube flavor—they should probably change that.

In my article "How to Tube Roll," for The Master Switch, I wrote that "unlike solid-state amps that simply let you hit a switch and hear the music, tube amps immerse you in the musical process; they require extra care and attention in tube selection, but reward you with something special and seductive in return."

Tube amps bring a different level of uniqueness and personalization into your audio chain, from looks to sound. From different brands, to different variations, swapping one tube for another can have a big impact on system synergy and the tonal characteristics of your amp. And, for many, this is what owning a tube amp is all about. The ability to tweak and experiment through tube rolling is just one more part of the audiophile’s journey to #AudioNirvana.

Roll With It

To learn more about tube rolling and read about a practical example, check out the full version of "How to Tube Roll," on The Master Switch.

There’s little to debate about the effects of unwanted vibrations in a hi-fi system. They suck. I’ll go so far as to say that the audible annoyances of untamed vibrations in your system and listening room can wreak havoc on your entire listening experience.

“When two MiGs are placed ‘round side up’ and one MiG is placed ‘round side down’ under a component … you hear a more ambient soundscape that is especially pleasing when room acoustics are somewhat ‘live’ or undamped. You may also prefer this combination if you like a slightly more liquid presentation, or if you often listen to large orchestral works. When two MiGs are placed ‘round side down’ and one MiG is placed ‘round side up’ under a component … you hear an immediate pin-point presentation of images. This combination is especially pleasing in rooms that are very damped, or for people who prefer intimate recordings, such as small scale jazz.”

Can three tiny resonating bowls intended to drain the vibrations from your components seriously make a difference to your system’s sound? Let's take a listen.

“Snake oil, smoke and mirrors make up 90% of high-end audio, but when you find that 10% of reality, it is worth its weight in gold (only your golden audiophile ears know for sure).”
– The Spirited Uncle M