For me it was experimenting w/gear back in the 80's when I came across the big SS amp/tube pre combo & it always was a good matchup. Over the yrs. I've discovered that a well implemented design, be it SS or tube, will give you the sound you desire.
I agree w/Jond "don't get weighed down by dogma" and will also add my mantra of "trust your ears".
I agree w/Jond "don't get weighed down by dogma" and will also add my mantra of "trust your ears".