To be honest, I primarily listen to imaging, and am not sure I've heard enough other phono's to make good comparisons on those dimensions. In comparing to my digital, I certainly think the sound is well balanced, the highs are softer and bit less detailed than the digital (but I guess that's normal and to be expected), and the bass is significantly better. Unfortunately, my current amp doesn't have the best bass control over the Thiels (see my other threads), so I'm not sure I'm in a good position to comment on the tight/soft dimension. Perhaps tonight I'll listen and see if I think I can make further comment along the dimensions you're most interested.