Tube Vs. SS Preamps

@jffyg     ”I am going to chime in here and then everyone can attack me. I think that many lesser priced tube based designs can be very musical and soft sounding which compliments many lesser expensive ss designed amps…”

Nothing to attack, it’s a generality. I agree with your assessment. I have swapped a lot of less expensive equipment in my headphone system and early on in my main system. Your assessment is good.

Typically there used (30 years ago and earlier) to be fairly large differences between the two camps. But they step by step converged closer to real music and to reflect more the designers intent as opposed to detailed but harsh versus warm and lacking detail. Of course it also depends on the price range. Inexpensive stuff is made with components chosen for cost and not sound quality.

However, there are still some residual differences in well implemented tube components versus well implemented solid state. My evidence is that over the last 50 years (starting with the preamp), slowly, one by one all of my equipment have become tubed and my system now sounds an order of magnitude better than in the past. There is a midrange bloom and authentic character to the bass I haven’t hears from solid state. My equipment imparts an emotional connection I have never been able to achieve otherwise.

On the other hand, if you are looking for the absolute last word in detail (minuscule difference) and slam, many people still like solid state. They also state not wanting to have to replace tubes (typically every 3,000 hours or more). My own theory is that some of slam is artificially created with a lean midrange and very fast transients SS amps can give you. But to me that robs you of some of the rhythm and pace (the emotional connection and musicality).

To me, the preamp is the most critical piece of equipment, and was my first to choose tubed... Audio Research... my preferred brand. You can see my systems by clicking on my ID.