I just added a separate <$1000 but highly regarded single-tubed DAC to my otherwise pure SS system.
The result is radically different sounding for the better I would say and more like some very high end tube systems I've heard, but I think the relative quality judgment on my part is to some significant extent a result of personal taste in sound.
IS it possible you just need to try a different sounding DAC, not necessarily one that cost a fortune? Different DACs at any particular price point can and often do sound radically different.
If you need something pricey, I'd agree with Shadorne to do in-home auditioning to justify the cost. I for one would be interested in hearing about your findings.
The result is radically different sounding for the better I would say and more like some very high end tube systems I've heard, but I think the relative quality judgment on my part is to some significant extent a result of personal taste in sound.
IS it possible you just need to try a different sounding DAC, not necessarily one that cost a fortune? Different DACs at any particular price point can and often do sound radically different.
If you need something pricey, I'd agree with Shadorne to do in-home auditioning to justify the cost. I for one would be interested in hearing about your findings.