Originally Posted by: k0ldfuz10n... why not take your buddy to the local guitar shop and plug into a solid state and tube amp and hear the difference for yourself? ...

Yes, exactly so! Trying out new gear should always be done with your eyes closed, and your mind and ears open. The name on the label means nothing! I have both kinds. I choose my gear based on what it sounds like.

BTW: if you used the search button you could dig up a lot of very useful threads on this very subject.