Solid state amp vs tube amps

For decades, pop (RIP) was a dedicated ARC man. D-79, D-150, SPs of various denominations, etc. He flirted briefly with a ML 335 but it went back into the box when he decided to go back to full valves with Jadis gear. Make of that what you will. 😉

As for me, I built and listened to a pair of Hafler DH-220s until about four years ago I decided to go ARC myself. I tried a used VT-100 from Echo Audio but unfortunately the 4 ohm taps were defective and they very kindly refunded me AND added some for my time and gas money driving a couple times down from the SEA area. Nice folks and I'd be happy to deal with them again if the time came. 

I found a used VS-110 and it's been a delight. It doesn't have the extreme bottom end that the Haflers did, but the upper bass, midrange and highs are wonderful compared to the SS Haflers. My pre is an ARC SP11 Mk2 BTW... 

IN GENERAL, that is to say not ALL, SS amps seem to be faster and have more extended bottom end from what I've heard in IME. Tubes, IN GENERAL, again to say not all, seem to have more bloom and musicality than SS amps. They also tend to clip a bit softer than SS amps. 

Big factors to the above will be supporting electronics, preamp, DAC, etc and of course the speakers. My particular ESLs respond well to both SS and tubes but I prefer the airier, softer tube amplification.

At the end of the day, it's what appeals to YOUR ears, eh?

Happy listening.

There's a noticeable difference in sound quality among amplifiers full stop - regardless of what active devices they use.

I'm exploring the best of both worlds using an MC 901 mcIntosh amplifier. biamping capability allows mids and tweeters to receive tubes which are better for harmonics in that area and solid state for the bass which requires more power to bring it out. The dedicated amplifiers to each of these areas appears to be a really good thing.

Also using NOS small tubes is really cool too.

I also have solid state amplifiers which are gathering Dust in another room. And they were very nice with plenty of power and very  cool temperature wise.

The idea on certain designs of Valve Amp having as part of the design an ease of access to the Valves, resulting in a very simplistic requirement to exchange a Valve is very attractive.

As exchanging Valves can and in certain cases do create a difference to an end sound that is discernible  for the impression made of being more attractive in use.

Then there is the alternative side and the one why many Valve Amp Design have the Valve visible to the user. That reason being easy observation of the Valves during use and after Power Off.

 There are not many who have a long term understanding of using Valve equipment, that would suggest a Valve Equipment is something that is switched on and forgotten. The Valve equipment is at its very best, when the user is disciplined to be vigilant in their observation of the equipment when in use and after Power Off.