I don't know if the AR will give much "type-like" sound. Of the units I have heard from AR, in my opinion they actually sound less like tubes. That's just my impression and some may very well consider this as a glaring stereotype. If you're looking for tube warmth and musicality I would look at Cary, Conrad Johnson, and dare I say McIntosh... If you really want to go with AR, I would look at their integrated that came before the Vi-55, I think it was called the CA-50? From what I understand that particular model was more tube-like. Also, in solid state, take a look at plinius...
