I also have a Granite player with tube and solid state output. The differences are readily apparent, and come down to what I (and I readily admit that I take the contrarian opinion) normally hear regarding the difference between tube and solid state.
Tube is more open, spacious, with greater clarity and detail. The sound also seems faster to my ears. On the negative side, if things are leaning towards brightness, you'll hear it even more with the tube output
Solid state is more relaxed and lush, with a heftier and richer bottom end. Its negative is that sometimes I find myself missing a bit of the excitement and jump of the music.
Which do I prefer? Having the option of using either, I do. Sometimes, I use the tube out, and sometime I go the solid state route. I most appreciate the sonic differences and flexibility.
Tube is more open, spacious, with greater clarity and detail. The sound also seems faster to my ears. On the negative side, if things are leaning towards brightness, you'll hear it even more with the tube output
Solid state is more relaxed and lush, with a heftier and richer bottom end. Its negative is that sometimes I find myself missing a bit of the excitement and jump of the music.
Which do I prefer? Having the option of using either, I do. Sometimes, I use the tube out, and sometime I go the solid state route. I most appreciate the sonic differences and flexibility.