Staxnuts
New Head-Fier
- Joined
- Dec 16, 2012
- Posts
- 7
- Likes
- 12
Which one you prefer and why?
Direct connection freaks me a little bit, because if something goes wrong you're at risk of getting full B+ right next to your ears. And you need a separate high-voltage begative supply so that the plates can rest at around 0V during normal operation.
A transformer is a component more in the signal path, and a costly one at that, but at least you can be sure your head will be isolated. A supplemental B- supply won't be needed anymore. Another benefit is that a unit with a CT primary can also act as plate load in a diff amp (that's what i use almost exclusively). This make for a simpler to build.
I think transformer coupling sounds very good anyways. Would DC coupling really be superior, considering the extra components needed?
I am teared between a will for a minimalist DC coupled path on one side, vs ease of building on the other side.
Opinions and especially listening impressions of both, are welcome!
Joris.
Direct connection freaks me a little bit, because if something goes wrong you're at risk of getting full B+ right next to your ears. And you need a separate high-voltage begative supply so that the plates can rest at around 0V during normal operation.
A transformer is a component more in the signal path, and a costly one at that, but at least you can be sure your head will be isolated. A supplemental B- supply won't be needed anymore. Another benefit is that a unit with a CT primary can also act as plate load in a diff amp (that's what i use almost exclusively). This make for a simpler to build.
I think transformer coupling sounds very good anyways. Would DC coupling really be superior, considering the extra components needed?
I am teared between a will for a minimalist DC coupled path on one side, vs ease of building on the other side.
Opinions and especially listening impressions of both, are welcome!
Joris.