I have an audiophile chum who has invested many thousands of dollars (US) into a stereo system which is located like a shrine in his home. If one is foolish enough to ask even the simplest question about it, thereby showing the tiniest bit of interest, he is likely to run on at length about topics which induce an hypnotic state in mere (non-audiophile) mortals. One of his favourite dissertations is about tubes (valves) versus solid-state thingies. He will carry on about softness and gentility and other non-scientific considerations, which justify the expenditure of wheelbarrows full of money on sets which contain tubes (valves). My recommendation: don't ask.
That was wonderfully written, my friend.