Hi
@mordy. I am still new to AE. Early impression is that AE is a little less "warm" but more refined, balanced and technically proficient. With Elise I found I looked for tube sets to bring out treble extension and to emphasize clarity and detail, whereas these attributes appear intrinsic with AE across different tube sets. At first I felt AE lacked some of Elise's incredible organic euphony, and while I still think it is less "tubey" then Elise and a bit closer to solid state sound, AE retains a high level of musicality and engagement. I am also really impressed with AE's layering, instrument placement and imaging, which greatly rewards attentive listening. Soundstage width is comparable but height and depth are better on AE, providing a more "holographic" sound field to use that over-hyped audiophile term. It is NOT a night and day difference, and there is clearly a "family" resemblance with both amps being terrific performers. I loved Elise, owned it for 3 years which is easily a record for me, and am anticipating an equally long and happy relationship with AE!