"Also a factor is whether the solid state is Class A circuit design"
I seem to recall all SS phono stages and SS Pre-amp circuits run in class A, so I don't think that's it.
I've had tubed and solid state gear. My tubed stuff was CJ Premier and Rogue and my SS was Adcom, Bryston, ML, and now Pass. I have always found SS to be quieter than tubed. Disclaimer- I never had a tubed phono stage but frankly, I think I'm going to be buried with my Pass phono stage as I don't think that it can ever be pried away from me, even from my cold dead hands.
But to get to the OP, I don't think any definitive statement of superiority can be made between tubed and SS. There are better and worse implementations of each. And even with a great implementation, you have no guarantee of success as system synergy forever lurks.
Best idea is to make a short list and try to audition with your gear in your environment.
Good luck and cheers!
I seem to recall all SS phono stages and SS Pre-amp circuits run in class A, so I don't think that's it.
I've had tubed and solid state gear. My tubed stuff was CJ Premier and Rogue and my SS was Adcom, Bryston, ML, and now Pass. I have always found SS to be quieter than tubed. Disclaimer- I never had a tubed phono stage but frankly, I think I'm going to be buried with my Pass phono stage as I don't think that it can ever be pried away from me, even from my cold dead hands.
But to get to the OP, I don't think any definitive statement of superiority can be made between tubed and SS. There are better and worse implementations of each. And even with a great implementation, you have no guarantee of success as system synergy forever lurks.
Best idea is to make a short list and try to audition with your gear in your environment.
Good luck and cheers!