I suppose the biggest problem with gear like amplifier types, it is hard to test since what happens theoretically isnt what happens in the real world. The articles posted ran tests in hypothetical situations. I know the tube vs SS debate is very heated everywhere in the audio world.

Audionote says transistor amps are not nearly superior to any form of valve, while class A amp companies claim thier goods provide less distortion, etc than tube could ever accomplish.

Then, of course, we have people who say that they cant stand the artificial SS sound and others who claim that tube users are just part of the hype for retro.

Hey! this sounds a lot like the Mac vs PC debate! I used to use PC, but now I'm a Mac user. I came to the conclusion that PC is not better than Mac or vice versa. It is just merely different. For those PC people ouit there who bash Mac, please try them out yourself before you do so. The most popular comment of why Mac is worse is usually "They are weird." Which is a meaningless explanation.

Tube and SS is the same. HiFi is the final reproduction of music in a way that resembles a live preformance. What's most important is our cognitive functions when listening. If you indeed feel that triode amps are a waste of time, then that will definately have an effect on the actual sound perceived, no matter you compare back to back or not. That's why it's not very good for first time audio buyers to log on forums like this one to get opinions. That only leads people to have a predisposed opinion based on other's opinions. (I'm guilty of the same thing)

One more thing. A 500 bux amp will sound like the best thing in the world if you think it does. Some people are not so fortunate to afford high end gear (like me). I think people have to get off how much they can improve on their gear and start to be positive about things. Lets just face it everyone. Nothing is ever the best. There is and will always be something better. If you bought a 500 bux amp and it excites you, then I think you may be happier than the guy who just spent 20k on some gear that he thinks could be better. Time to spend less time thinking about upgrading and time to spend some time thing about how to enjoy the gear. Remember, we all buy this stuff to enjoy. I cant afford the best in the world, but I'm sure I will enjoy it and that's what is really important.