Matador
Well-known member
Using the PNP follower (or any follower topology for that matter) lowers the output impedance of the front end driving the transformer. This improves the transient response of the RLC combination (output impedance * transformer L * coupling cap). The lower R may lower the noise floor a bit too.
However in my experience it's a subtle change, and with a good transformer it's pretty much a wash in either case. I suspect the entire reason for the follower in the clones is so that the manufacturers can get away with a lower ratio (e.g. much cheaper) transformer: sonic considerations probably didn't enter the equation.
However in my experience it's a subtle change, and with a good transformer it's pretty much a wash in either case. I suspect the entire reason for the follower in the clones is so that the manufacturers can get away with a lower ratio (e.g. much cheaper) transformer: sonic considerations probably didn't enter the equation.