I find these recent posts about determining the type of amp from an MP3 interesting.
Interesing in the sense that the techniques used recording an amp make a huge difference in the tone of the amp. Also, characteristics of the amp are lost in conversion to MP3. Further, many playback devices are computer speakers, which drastically color the tone.
If some of these posts are meant to illustrate that a ss/modeling amp can sound as good or comparable to a tube amp when converted to MP3 and played back through computer speakers, fine. In fact some of the members here, including myself, agree that the type of amp doesn't matter as long as the final result sounds good for the intended purpose.
That being said, I personally find an extremely defining characteristic of an amp is the way it reacts to my playing. I have generally found that there is less of a "battle" with tube amps than ss to squeeze out notes dripping with character and sustain. However, there are some ss/modeling amps that also react well with my playing.
The comparisons and quizzes are an interesting diversion. They may prove that ss/modelling amps can sound damn good, even in MP3 format. However, many of the "gear snobs" are probably more concerned with how an amp reacts when they play through it. Thus, the comparisons may not win them over.
Matt