This is just my feeling but: To me Bass slam is great but its not the most important factor . My guess is many tube guys/gals feel the same way. They probably pursued and stick with tubes and will give up a touch of slam and consider the whole musical package vs. bass slam only...Not sure if that makes any sense to you.For me its all about a system balance.....
A question regarding "tubes"
This may me a dumb question but does all tube products (amps, CD player and pre amps) roll off, or softens the highs and gives up some bass slam.