Lived with tube, hybrid and amps for extended periods, always with tubed preamps. The best of each type (CAT JL1 LE , Wall Audio PSET, Music Reference RM200, Blue Circle BC204, Pass XA30.8 ) were all very satisfying when matched with good sources and compatible loudspeakers. I’ve just about finished downsizing my system for simplicity, to fit a smaller living space and to better suit a change to predominantly background music listening. As much about minimizing the number/size of components. My music has now been ripped/stored on SSD (sonicTransporter i7) and lps/cds sold. I wanted a single component for streaming (which I’m new to, but it’s been really nice to listen to “radio” again), volume control and amplification between my sTi7 and my loudspeakers, which pretty much limits me to solid state. I settled on a Naim Uniti Nova which is class AB solid state and am the most pleased I’ve ever been with my system. I’m sure similarly great sounding, small footprint systems can be had with tubed gear.