This appears to be a perennial question and is asked on a regular basis. Lots of threads with great discussions but no conclusive answer. It boils down to taste. For me, For the types of music I listen, I love the "color/distortion" that a tube preamplifier adds to the texture of the music and my brain translates that into musicality, life, and can paint a more realistic soundstage in my head. I could care less if it is not completely accurate but on the other hand this color sounds more like live music to me.