Why is solid state more popular when tubes are better?


Yes tubes are more involved and require periodic maintenance. Hybrid tube components need not apply, these are really solid state.

Tubes are better for multiple reasons and yet the world and the trade prefers solid state. Those rare audio shops that are geared toward stereo listening and serious connoisseurs tend to Focus more on tubes.  Those in business who like to improve volumes tend to offer solid state.  All the YouTube channels looking to improve their business tend to be solid state.  Maybe because tubes require much more expertise to sell, and there's lesser and lesser to go around. Solid state is more of a fast food commodity.

Tubes are difficult for businesses due to all the maintenance and complexity so you see it less often. Much much easier to sell hybrids or solid state.

 

 

emergingsoul

@emergingsoul “… a guy with a $100,000+ system mixed-and-matched from "best of" lists.”

 

One of the primary reasons components must be judged on the basis of sound quality.

 

 

Manual transmission vs. Dual clutch auto vs. No tranny EV.  They all get you there but are a different experience,  There is something for everyone but some require more skill and maintenance.  

 .  

@emergingsoul 

 

My friend? Thin, inarticulate, no bass, no imaging… it is so bad it is unreal. I have tried coaching him for decades… but he will simply not listen, and picks well reviewed stuff. He has a Presto preamp, Krell amp, Esoteric SACD player… which broke 6 years ago and he has not fixed, Thiel speakers. 

Yeah, better listen to some Audiogon members. Don't listen to me, though, it would get you in financial trouble in no time.