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Digital Processor That Are Great Matches 4 Tubes?

I wanted to narrow down my search by putting together a list of Digiital Processors (DAC) which would be good candidates with a low-powered (25 W) tube back end (amp and preamp). What am I looking for in terms of its characteristics? (1)Musical (2) Open (3) Clarity. Price range: Top 5K retail. Thanks. Appreciate your time on this.
fullrun
mceljo
1,357 posts
 
I have a Maverick D2 tubemagic DAC that I am happy with and I have a tube amplifier. No where near your top price range so you may not have interest in it...
fullrun OP
26 posts
 
Thanks for responding. With a tube amp and preamp, and then adding a tube DAC in the line, concerns me with the potential of too much warmth... while I am looking for a very musical analogue playback... I have a strong preference for a unit that provides great clarity and openness. It's a balancing act.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Empirical Audio Overdrive SE just won ultimate DAC shootout on Audiogon:

http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?ddgtl&1398132150&openflup&1177&4#1177

Overdrive SE has tube-like characteristics, but also dynamics and detail to die for. It is not harsh like most SS DACs. $6499.00

It has review by Audiostream:
http://www.audiostream.com/content/empirical-audio-overdrive-se-usb-dacpre

and currently being reviewed by Dagogo.

Winner of TAS Golden Ear award.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
BTW, I use my Overdrive SE with tube SE monoblocks, 805A output. No preamp needed with this DAC, but if you have a really good tube pre, it can be even better.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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