Since r/skeptic doesn't care much for guitars per se, I have a question about tube amps and what makes them preferable to solid state.

Another topic that is of keen interest to me is the tube/solid state controversy. What I have come to understand that in guitar amplifiers, tubes really shine when overdriven. I am fairly certain that tube driven distortion is worlds better than modeled distortion. The reason would be that the variations in distortion is more naturally random vs simulated algorithmic distortion. I can buy that, and I believe I can hear that. So much that I am in fact willing to put out good money for quality tube amps for my favorite rock and metal tones.

On the other hand, a great solid state amp will drive clean tones with the same vibrancy as a tube amp. I am also aware that many jazz players prefer solid state for how much power they can get without breakup. It appears that most sound engineers will tell you that there really is no difference, audible or otherwise, between tube and solid state driven stereos.

So what do you think? Better yet, what do you know?