Thanks for all the comments so far. My sense is that the recent "Reference" components tend to sound more solid-state-like than the non-Reference units or earlier ARC components that have the more traditional rich, warm sound of tubes. I currently own the Reference 150 and Reference CD9. These units have the best aspects of solid state ("quickness", dynamic range, bass dynamics) without the less good aspects (edgy, harsh, or hot sounding), while still maintaining the sweetness of tubes. I listen mostly to classical music and for me, the acid test is how a component handles massed strings. Tubes still do this the best.
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