But I’m wondering if the LTA 40 Reference might be too SS sounding? Likewise, based on my experience with Conrad Johnson ART 150, will I find the Classic 120se also too neutral sounding - lacking what I understood the CJ warmth of glow I had hoped for?
couple points to your query
1) yes some feel the linear tube zotl ref40 amp is somewhat solid state sounding, especially if one expects a softer, sweeter, honey colored sound... this amp is a berning design, without output transformers, so its transparency and speed is outstanding, while providing the best imaging and midrange magic that tubes can offer -- but the treble is not laid back or rolled off, but this is also why it gives such great sense of air and soundstaging
2) i think you need to go back a few generations for c-j tube power amps to get the old school tube sound... i think the choice of power tube -- especially newer russian kt120/150 series tubes -- heavily dictates the presentation of modern tube amps -- these high power highly linear tubes will not roll off treble or bass... i think you need to go back to older premier 11a/11xs gen amps, with 6550 or el34 output tubes to get the more traditional c-j tube amp sound
hope this helps