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FAQ answers

Q10. What is the different between single-end and push-pull amplifier ?

Ans :

Single-ended and push-pull is just a difference in amplifier circuit design. Consider an amplifier stage that  amplify the complete music signal with one single tube only , that is a single-ended amplifier stage. If an amplifier stage use two tubes to amplifier the signal, and these two tubes is working on a different direction, that is when one tube gives out current, the other tube draws in current, that is called a push-pull action.

Single-ended amplifier is always pure class A operation, it a very good focusing, very rich  harmonics, very natural in sound quality, but the disadvantage is low power, low dynamics and poor bass control. It is especially good to drive the mid-range or tweeter section of a multi-amp system. Some design will make two tubes works in parallel single-ended drive to double the output power, but this design usually will degrade the focusing and smoothness of the music, because no two tubes works 100% the same way. When a signal being amplified differently, the outcome will be the summing of the two, result in rougher and coarser imaging and sound stage. The sound quality of this type of parallel single-ended is midway between single-tubed single-ended and push-pull.

Push-pull amplifier can be class A or class AB operation, it usually has very good dynamics, very high power and good bass punch, but the sound quality is not as good as singled-ended. It is especially good to drive the bass section of a multi-amp system, or use to drive speakers which a single-ended amplifier can't handle with.

information posted by www.space-tech-lab.com

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