i hope this thread doesn't turn into a tube vs. ss debate. this is for the benefit of those willing to learn about ss.
It has been interesting discussion comparing tube and SS. What I can see here as part of the problem in this comparison is the difference of technology before and now.
Before, we just have analog devices from the source to the speakers. All these devices alters the signals in the path - either as losses or amplifications.
Now, the only analog path that may remain are just the main amp driver. The CD/DVD, the DACS, and preamp may now all be digital, feeding the MAIN amp.
Whether we like it or not, we will not prefer a flat-sounding amp - it is dull and not exciting to listen with - and flat amps are generally for studio purposes. What we enjoy and run after are those amps we will enjoy hearing. Talk about marantz slightly laid back implementation is in itself an introduction of distortion to the original soud (you may call it equalization). The Denon is much more laid back than marantz - it is their sonic signature of Denon distortion - so goes with pioneer being bright or the NAD being soft or Yamaha somewhere in between with any of these.
Tube is basically 3% THD. It has soft clipping. These are distortions to sounds. Talk about sweet sounding even harmonics present in the sound makes it listenable - but it is not supposed to be there - thus it is distortion.
Basically, all SS amps (any brand) are almost identical linear (this is in fact the design concept of linear devices such as transistors). Their main differences is their signature distortions (equalizations) introduced in the preamp level. Further, your respective CDs like ARcam, HK, NAD and so on (if you use the analog line out) also provide another point of distortion (equalization) to maintain their signature sonic balance which has its own audiophile following.
Tubes, on its part has transformers in its signal path - it is an inductance in the signal path - and low gauge of magnet wire - which I deduce somehow explains the limitation of high frequency (because of inductance) and low frequency (because of gauge) - resulting in a minrangey sound. This is also distortion - and may explain the 3%THD typical of tubes.
So does tube listener enjoy distortion that why they loved tubes? I dare say yes! With the same reasoning, SS lovers loves distortions thats why they have brand following - av_phile for Onkyo, Others for HK, levi for Denon and others for NAD. anf all this are subjective preferences - and nobody can put his weight into saying tubes are better or SS is best.
Objectivity ought to have standards - and it is here parametric measurement will indicate superiority of SS in keeping signals almost unaltered (flat responses). but this is big deal to be made as basis for ones preference. Your ears, depending on your age level, type of your sonic balance, and music type you enjoy will dictate what amp to get.
Lastly, harmonics are sometimes very small issue (typically not audible) that is being magnified beyond practical terms by either camp.
In conclusion, scientifically and technically - tubes are already past its practical and economical life. but this does not mean that tube lovers should switch to SS - old technology can still thrive with the present though very expensive. This is why, tubes lovers are often referred to as hobbyist, and why debate about hobby.
