Here's a brief summary of tube amps vs. solid state amps.
[U]Tube amps:[/U]
Expensive
Sound better (opinion, the sound is warmer and fuller)
You have to crank them to get the full tone (unless your using a distortion pedal.
The tubes will need to be replaced and the amp re-biased every year or so.
[U]Solid State amps:[/U]
Cheaper
More reliable (tubes can die on you)
Same tone no matter what the volume is.
No parts to replace (like tubes)
Poor sound (opinion, they all sound to shrilly and hollow, if that makes sense)
I had a Solid State amp when I was beginner, and then discovered tubes. Even though I prefer tube amps, a solid state amp probably would be better for a beginner because of price and reliability.
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