IMHO? It's the way it feels. Think about A2D converters. Most digital gear have an A2D (analog to digital) converters. Most A2D converters have a "minimum threshold or resolution."
With the Noble, you tubes, The tubes produce a more natural curve. Further, when you hit the tubes hard, there is some sag and natural compression.
As a result, the way it responds to your playing is more nuanced and natural. It lets you articulate on your instrument better than all other digital gear.
Now, when you compare it to transistor based gear? I'm sure you've heard all the conversations comparing tube gear to solid state. It's pretty much the same argument here.
This of course is just one audiophiles opinion.
I absolutely feel the same way about amps and the way they respond.