Started with SS McIntosh 1.25kwh mono blocs and McIntosh SS pre and really missed the detail and nuances of my music. I went to all Tubes with Audio Research Ref160S amp, Ref6SE pre, PH9 phono stage, and Nagra Tube Dac. Had that set up for about 3 years and went back to SS with Burmester Reference amp, pre amp, and phono stage but kept the Nagra Tube Dac. I feel like each change has resulted in a significant positive change. Also, I think some of the higher end SS offers better detail and character over any tube set up I have heard. I’m done, at least for now.
The difference between tubes and solid state that I am finding
I'm still a newbie when it comes to tubes. I have had the McIntosh C12000 preamp (with Moon 861, Eversolo A8, and Focal Sopra n1s) for awhile now. It is very enjoyable. I noticed when switch between Tube amp and Solid state mode the difference is very subtle. But when I do focus on it, I notice:
Tube sound: More open with a slight blossom sound. Maybe slightly more holographic. A pretty sound.
Solid State sound: More exact. Instruments seem more there and defined. More in my face. Bass hits harder to. But not as open and airy.
As far as brightness, I wouldn't say ether one is more softer than the other... the brightness seems same on both.
Am I correct in this is how the differences between the tube/states differ?
I really enjoy both modes.... but I think the solid state one gets me a little more excited.