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Integrated tube amp with usb dac advice please

Hello, ive been a member for a long time and this is my first thread.  I am looking for some advice on a tube amp with onboard dac with usb in.  This will be my first trip into tubes.  So far ive looked at the caiyn and jolida.  The jolida will require a separate dac but looks like a good value.  Wanting to stay under 2k. Thanks in advance for any suggestions. DG
dickhertz
Post removed 
sfar's avatar
sfar
1,758 posts
 
Yes, keeping the amp and DAC separate is a good idea. I've owned both Jolida and Cayin integrateds and both sound great, are well built and offer great value. The Cayin - A-50T MKII  at $1,600. plus a high quality, versatile DAC like the Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 at $400 would come in right at your budget. Of course, there are dozens of other possible combinations, I'm basing this recommendation on my experience of owning both.
dickhertz OP
24 posts
 
Thanks sfar... Exactly the advice i am seeking.  Choices choices
mesch
3,481 posts
 
I agree with the idea of purchasing a separate DAC. How much of your budget should be allocated to the DAC depends...

How are you going to use the USB input?

What other sources are you going to use? 
dickhertz OP
24 posts
 
I stream Amazon HD from my laptop 90% of the time.  Play cds the other 10%. I have a few turntables and lps but never use them so a phono preamp is not needed.  I have been looking at a Raven Nighthawk and love it but on the fence about it not using point to point wiring.  He does give 45 days to listen. 
As far as a dac i have never bought a stand alone.  My equipment now uses wolfson and AD dacs and they sound good to me.  
Ive narrowed it down to the Raven, jolida and Cayin... The Rogue Cronus is also nice but have noticed alot of used one on the market for half of new.  That can mean trouble.  Thanks for the input.  DG
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