I have gone back and forth between tube and SS preamps, and cd players, even trying those known for "the closest to tube-like sound," such as Tom Evans Vibe/Pulse.
I now have tubes in each of my components, cd, preamp, and amps.
Three things clinched it for me:
First, I realized that for me, tubed gear simply conveys the emotion of recorded music in a way that I have not matched using SS equipment.
Second, I decided to quit obsessing about NOS tubes (and I have owned many). I determined the small loss (of whatever) to the sound quality that some perceive from using less expensive or new tubes is not worth the angst that comes from purchasing and maintaining high cost NOS tubes. I found a very good tube vendor (and a couple of good back-up vendors) and have purchased new or less expensive NOS tubes that do not break the bank. That way, if I want to leave equipment on all weekend, I am not concerned about tube life, etc. since I can replace each of my tubes relatively inexpensively. Another benefit is that new tubes are often quieter IME.
Third, and finally, I found my sweet spot using Lamm equipment with their fully tubed LL2 Deluxe preamp and their hybrid (one single tube per amp) class A M1.1 monos. The hybrid amps give me the power I need, and also the midrange richness and dimension tubes are known for.
I would say buy the tube amps, plan on using less expensive new tubes from a good vendor, and enjoy the music.
I now have tubes in each of my components, cd, preamp, and amps.
Three things clinched it for me:
First, I realized that for me, tubed gear simply conveys the emotion of recorded music in a way that I have not matched using SS equipment.
Second, I decided to quit obsessing about NOS tubes (and I have owned many). I determined the small loss (of whatever) to the sound quality that some perceive from using less expensive or new tubes is not worth the angst that comes from purchasing and maintaining high cost NOS tubes. I found a very good tube vendor (and a couple of good back-up vendors) and have purchased new or less expensive NOS tubes that do not break the bank. That way, if I want to leave equipment on all weekend, I am not concerned about tube life, etc. since I can replace each of my tubes relatively inexpensively. Another benefit is that new tubes are often quieter IME.
Third, and finally, I found my sweet spot using Lamm equipment with their fully tubed LL2 Deluxe preamp and their hybrid (one single tube per amp) class A M1.1 monos. The hybrid amps give me the power I need, and also the midrange richness and dimension tubes are known for.
I would say buy the tube amps, plan on using less expensive new tubes from a good vendor, and enjoy the music.