Why did you lean one way or the other

For me, the tube preamp defines the emotional color of the sound and a great SS amp delivers that uncolored to my speakers. 

I made a thread today along these lines. I was never a tube guy because I like my music to have as much detail as possible. However, the past 4 days I have had a tube DAC in the house that has an OTL output stage that is supposed to be conducive towards a clean and detailed sound. After listening to it I am all in on this tube DAC because it gives me then most detailed sound I have ever heard but also has a holographic tube sound. I did not think that combination was possible.

I have posted many times on A’gon how much I love the solid-state Schitt Yggi+ OG DAC. Well, this tube DAC is better but way more expensive too.

I had a VAC Pre amp and VAC Amp for many years. I even for a while had a VAC DAC Mk II. I moved away from that 20 years ago but kept the other two. About 3 years ago I became frustrated with constant repairs and down time so I moved away from tubes. Also my VAC Amp weighed 140 pounds and I cannot lift it anymore. My son had to help me box it up. I am now all SS front to back and I am happy. Maybe some day I will play with another tube amp. I am getting really good sound right now.

When I first got my system it was a Turntable + McIntosh C24, Mc240 and older Heresy’s (with REL subs).  When I sent the C24 to be refurbished I purchased a vintage Technics SU-8600 as an integrated replacement.  Something was missing.  I couldn’t figure out why the music was less engaging.  I then paired the SU-8600 preamp with the Mc240 and something happened to the bass that brought me back in.  After a lot of listening and reading about systems and getting my C24 back I realized that the mid bass bloom is what I’m really drawn to.  Ultimately I swapped the C24 for an Mx110z and ended up all tube.  I love the sound, but am not convinced I’ll stay here forever. From what I’ve read, it sounds like there’s a lot to get down with on really good SS gear.

I had never experienced a tube amp in my system until 1999. Once I heard that sound I knew it was what I wanted. I was almost exclusively a tube guy, with the exception of a stint with some Maggies, after that. But I came across an SMc modded DNA 0.5 a couple of years ago. After sending it back for another round of mods, I was absolutely floored by the sound. It's good enough to not miss tubes, and that's mighty praise indeed.