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Tube DAC Recommendations

I am in the market for DAC; my preference is a tube DAC. My primary music source will come from a computer or music server. The DAC will connect to Sim Audio 700i integrated amp. Budget is up to $7000 for the DAC.
I have been studying this forum over the last several months but cannot seem to find a consensus on the top 3-5 tube DACs.
Any input is appreciated.

Thanks
ddelisle911
ddelisle911 OP
34 posts
 
Thanks Mrtennis
Do you have a model number for the zanden dac?
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
You may want to consider the Concert Fidelity DAC.A used model is well within your stated price range.It`s exceptionally natural with wonderful tonality.
Regards,
ddelisle911 OP
34 posts
 
It seems to me that tube DAC technology may not have caught up with the current sampling rates currently on the internet.
Perhaps there is a limitation of hi rez music available; I will need to check that.

Two of the suggestions above have limitations regarding the sampling rate. I have no CD collection right now; I am starting from scratch. The plan was to use downloaded hi rez files from the internet and store this on a server. My thinking was that I would get a better sound quality.

I am not opposed to making an investment in cd's; I just thought that I was going backwards with CD's. Your thoughts?
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
i do not have a model number for the original dac. i don't think they use model numbers.
ddelisle911 OP
34 posts
 
MrTennis-
I am seeing the model # as 5000; there was a successor of 5100 but which went up to 24/96, but they still kept the 5000 as their "signature" model.
http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/zanden/mkII.html
My only concern is the low sampling rate of 16/44.
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