I’ve heard the 2902 and 2502 are more similar than different in regards to sound and playing response, but I wanted to ask if there are any significant differences between the two when they’re in similar wattage modes? Is the feel different? Or are you mainly hearing the differences in power tube types?
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Hi MrPokeylope,
This is going to be based on my experience with these two amplifiers and is therefore considered subjective.
In my opinion, Class A is a totally different animal than the plate voltage reduction that occurs in the 2902. Again, that’s my opinion. Class A can have more detail in the highs but can “feel” looser in the low end. I’ve always felt that Class A amplifiers “feel” like they are on the edge of falling apart but really aren’t. Some players can find that feeling slightly uncomfortable.
With or without the reduction in plate voltage in the 2902, it does not “feel” the same as Class A mode on the 2502. The 2902 will “feel” different in low power mode as well than the 2502 in Class AB mode.
The point of low power mode isn’t to make the 2902 sound or feel like the 2502, it’s meant to sound and feel like the 2902 in low power mode. I hope that makes a little sense. That being said, I’ve never played a Fryette power amplifier that I needed to “get used to” in order to play.
Thank You,
Terry
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