Just A Curious Question

[moe.moe]

How is it that an amplifier like the Aguilar DB751 has the same wattage output as a MESA Subway 800 amplifier that is much smaller ? I realize that the Aggy has tubes and all but what is the difference that makes the Aguilar heavier than the smaller MESA amplifier..

Thanks in advance for my schooling!

Peace!

 

[Old Garage-Bander]

How is it that an amplifier like the Aguilar DB751 has the same wattage output as a MESA Subway 800 amplifier that is much smaller ? I realize that the Aggy has tubes and all but what is the difference that makes the Aguilar heavier than the smaller MESA amplifier..

Thanks in advance for my schooling!

Peace!

Tubes.

Tubes do require some additional supporting actors not required of full solid state amps.
There needs to be additional transformers, or transformer windings to supply the high voltages and filament voltages needed by tubes. Along with that are additional components such as large electrolytic capacitors, maybe even power supply chokes. All just for the tube. Tube sockets and glass enclosures are not all that heavy but they do add up and they take up space which may mean larger dimensions of the chassis. Sometimes, depending on design, the chassis itself needs to be made of heavier gauge steel. In your example the tubes may only be in the preamp. That being the case, they do not contribute to the amount of output power.

 

[Stumbo]

Audio Amplifier Classes (A, A/B, D, G, and H): What are the Differences?

 

[Old Garage-Bander]

Audio Amplifier Classes (A, A/B, D, G, and H): What are the Differences?

Nice "ampsplainin"!

For anyone wondering what happen to class C.
They're not much good for audio, but get a lot of love in radio transmitters.