Thanks for your replies. Yes the ol' valves vs. ss arguement

I cannot speak for guitar and other music instruments but as an old audio technician I used to repair valve gear, including televisions - and often scrap them after the customer simply wanted to "update them". Such a shame these days.
Like many forums on the internet I take most info on board, some with a grain of salt, and make my own decision. I'm into vintage hifi these days since some of it holds it's value better than telescope gear.
Richard, I checked out your links - thanks for replying.
David, I understand where you're coming from but throw me some links if you have them so I can check them out and confirm it for myself. All forums have their subjective members whom think they are always right and never wrong - including IIS.
Cheers,