Quote:
Originally Posted by
VitaX 
When people say a specific headphone works better with a tube amp rather than solid state, why is that exactly? What is the difference between the two and what they have to offer? And is one preferred over the other for the 650s?
Some will say solid state sounds cleaner, yes and that may be true when using a mid-level tube amp. But once you start getting into the $500-$1,000 amps and beyond it's not so cut-and-dry. At least, the one's I've listened to.
Thing about tube amps, though is you can use some tubes that sound cleaner and more analytical than others. I prefer tubes that have laid back mids a tad more relaxed in the treble department. But I have other tubes I can switch out with that suddenly change the sound to a more sterile and sparkly presentation.
Though, for me these differences are pretty subtle. It's not like I'm using a totally different amp or anything. You just sort of fall into what you like. The tubes I use, I rarely switch out no matter what genre of music I'm listening to. Whatever sounds good to you. The nice thing about tube amps though is you do have the option to experiment with different tubes. Plus they just look impressive there, glowing warmly on your bookshelf/desk 
