Why did you lean one way or the other

My solid state progression took from Technics to Yamaha, to Hafler to NYAL to Distech.  Once I tried a decent tube amp, I experienced an inviting textured holographic clarity and depth I hadn’t experience before and never looked back. 

My once stock Dynaco 70 amps have now been modified a couple of times, and I did add a solid state B&K amp and active crossovers to the woofers below 60hz to get  the benefit of the extension and bass slam that SS amps offer, but otherwise I still absolutely love what I’m hearing from my tubes.  

I tried tubes.  BHK from PSAudio.   I had noise issues.   Tried Audionet SS pre and amps.  Never looked back.  Amazing.

For me, the tube preamp defines the emotional color of the sound and a great SS amp delivers that uncolored to my speakers. 

I made a thread today along these lines. I was never a tube guy because I like my music to have as much detail as possible. However, the past 4 days I have had a tube DAC in the house that has an OTL output stage that is supposed to be conducive towards a clean and detailed sound. After listening to it I am all in on this tube DAC because it gives me then most detailed sound I have ever heard but also has a holographic tube sound. I did not think that combination was possible.

I have posted many times on A’gon how much I love the solid-state Schitt Yggi+ OG DAC. Well, this tube DAC is better but way more expensive too.

I had a VAC Pre amp and VAC Amp for many years. I even for a while had a VAC DAC Mk II. I moved away from that 20 years ago but kept the other two. About 3 years ago I became frustrated with constant repairs and down time so I moved away from tubes. Also my VAC Amp weighed 140 pounds and I cannot lift it anymore. My son had to help me box it up. I am now all SS front to back and I am happy. Maybe some day I will play with another tube amp. I am getting really good sound right now.