What does solid-state mean?

Solid state bass amps are any amp which doesn’t use valves to amplify the signal and instead uses transistors. There is a misconception that solid state means that it is digital. This is not true, these amps are more often than not all analog, retaining all the richness and definition of your instrument.

Do bassists prefer solid state amps?

Many bassists prefer solid state amps. Primarily they are popular simply because they are so much smaller and lighter than traditional valve amps. Also, they are often used by funk or metal bassists because they have a more precise, immediate attack than valve amps; delivering excellent definition to complex bass lines.