I used to own an ARC SP6a (almost 30 years ago) and thought it was the first step toward a neutral sound. It was a bit dry but clean and very nice.
I recently owned an Audio Note Soro SE and could never put my finger on what it sounded like. It was so neutral and chameleon like, it always served the music, a wonderful amp. I now own an Audio Note Meishu which is probably a bit warm but has such a huge soundstage and is so expressive that I do not mind the bit of 'tubey' sound. It may be the perfect compromise, though the bass is a bit muddy, and I would not want it any looser, so in that regard I need the modern version of tube gear with good extension.
So the bottom line for me is I need the new tube gear, the old stuff with the big bass and rolled off highs is too distracting and the new gear is still wonderful in the midrange so you get the best of both worlds.
I still prefer either to solid state and prefer either of those to digital but none of the above begin to approach live, not even close, so lets keep perspective and enjoy our crazy obsessive hobby!
I recently owned an Audio Note Soro SE and could never put my finger on what it sounded like. It was so neutral and chameleon like, it always served the music, a wonderful amp. I now own an Audio Note Meishu which is probably a bit warm but has such a huge soundstage and is so expressive that I do not mind the bit of 'tubey' sound. It may be the perfect compromise, though the bass is a bit muddy, and I would not want it any looser, so in that regard I need the modern version of tube gear with good extension.
So the bottom line for me is I need the new tube gear, the old stuff with the big bass and rolled off highs is too distracting and the new gear is still wonderful in the midrange so you get the best of both worlds.
I still prefer either to solid state and prefer either of those to digital but none of the above begin to approach live, not even close, so lets keep perspective and enjoy our crazy obsessive hobby!