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DAC choices -- help me cross the line

My current DAC is Cambridge Audio Azur 851D driving the two channel speaker system in the study. My headphone system consists of a Bluesound Node 2i feeding into a Quicksilver headphone amp. The plan is to put the CA DAC in the headphone chain and sell the Node, so this means I have to purchase a new DAC for the 2 channel system in the study. Here's what the 2 channel system looks like ...
opticalRendu >> CA Azur 851D (to be replaced) >> Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum 2 >> Harbeth P3esr

So what am I looking for? Heft, holographic, a bit of warmth, big organic sound, tonal richness. I don't mind sacrificing a bit of neutrality or accuracy. I listen to all kinds of music but am partial to jazz, vocals, classic rock. 

I almost pulled the trigger on a Mytek Brooklyn DAC+ but wanted to take the R2R DACs for a spin just for kicks. I was initially interested in the MHDT Pagoda or Orchid, but their no-return policy is a no go for me. I know some people don't mind, but I really don't want to give my business to a company who doesn't trust its own products.

So this leads me to three final contenders -- AudioMirror Tubadour iii SE, Tubadour iii (regular/non-SE) and the Border Patrol DAC. Really interested in hearing from someone who might have heard at least one of the two, or better yet compared the Audiomirror to one of the MHDT DACs.

Now Audiomirror offers two versions of the Tubadour III -- SE and non-SE, with the SE being a $1000 costlier. Wondering if the sonic improvements are worth the higher $$$ in the SE version. Would love to hear from someone who has had a chance to compare the two.

Also wondering how the Tubadour III regular version compares to MHDT Pagoda. Both are around the same price.

Note: If are going to suggest another DAC, I don't mind. But please make sure it's R2R, < $2500 (used or new), has a return policy, and NOT made in China.

128x128arafiq
arafiq's avatar
arafiq OP
1,684 posts
 
Update: After a long wait, I finally received the Tubadour III yesterday. I decided to go with the basic version but did ask Vlad to add an orange fuse. I will refrain from commenting on sound characteristics until I’ve accumulated at least 50 hours. But TBH, the first impressions (after 3-4 hours) are nothing to write home about. Let’s hope things start to improve as time goes on.

However, one thing that I do want to point out is that the buying experience certainly has room to improve. I found the responses from Vlad very delayed and sparse. At one point, I was tempted to pull the plug and go with MHDT or some other company. It felt like pulling teeth to get any information. I’m sure other folks have had better experiences, but I’m just sharing mine with the wider community. Hopefully Vlad can take it as constructive criticism. Having said that I do understand that there are inherent limitations of running a one-man operation. But still ...

I want to thank everyone who shared their opinions and suggestions. I’m sure I would have been equally happy with MHDT, Border Patrol, Metrum, etc.
arafiq's avatar
arafiq OP
1,684 posts
 
I’ve put about 20 hours on the DAC so far, and I must say I’m not super impressed. Not only is it not performing better than my Cambridge Audio Azur 851D dac in any particular area, I feel that the soundstage has shrunk, the top end has become dull, e.g. the leading edges and bite of guitars and pianos are gone. A little too sweet and mellow. The first word that comes to find when listening to this DAC: Boring!

I’ll try to live with it for a few more days and then most likely send it back to Vlad. I’m sure it’s a great DAC but it’s not doing anything for me ... yet.
rja's avatar
rja
2,371 posts
 
Try to audition a Sonnet Morpheus.
Very nice Dutch DAC with volume control.
A used one would fit your budget.
mesch
3,520 posts
 
I own the AM Tubadour III. Great DAC having the qualities aforementioned. I had Vlad add the upgraded capacitors and resistors and the USB power supply. Did not go full out for the SE model. Did not need the additional inputs/outputs or the footers. For my taste I doubt there is a better DAC available at the price.
ghasley
2,506 posts
 
There's no free lunch at this price point and you choose the compromises you are willing to accept. You might visit with Vlad to determine if there is a less boring tube selection you might try. Many enjoy the Tubadour, the Border Patrol and other similar dacs as so many in our hobby are looking to tame digititus and believe the smoother presentation is more analog like.
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