Another new DAC: Audio Mirror

@tvad Great thanks for that info.

I just bought the Benchmark DAC3B (again) and will buy the AM SE if I can find someone to sell me one (anyone, Vlad?).

I bought a CODA CSib integrated amp a few days ago which will be function as headphone amp for RAAL SR1a. The AM SE is for the bright RAAL's with the CODA but I would like to also use the AM SE with my speakers connected to an all Benchmark stack. 

I want to have both the DAC3B and AM SE connected to the Benchmark HPA4 preamp which should offer quite the contrast. So based on your answer I can do this.

I am new to tubes. This DAC will be the first one I have owned from the dark side. I was wondering how one knows when to replace the tubes?

That's the worst part of using tubes in my opinion. Usually they just gradually lose their "vitality" over time rather than failing in a noticable way. Best thing to do in my experience is to get a second pair of your main tubes and try switching them with your primary pair every once in a while (6 months, a year). If they sound the same (or worse), you know the originals are still good. I'm over a year into my first set on the AM and still prefer that pair to the new ones.

Even though tubes have recommended life spans, some keep working well long after that time is up. Others don't make it that far...

Or get a tube tester (just kidding).

ok the AM is a great DAC , but now we've got another monster rearing it's ugly head called the PrimaLuna Evo 100.
i'm tired of my YGGY 2 and am going to buy either the AM or the PL .
stressed out !!! which one lol?

Vlad has another "new Dac" that will hit sometime in the next 2 months...price will be $3500....we will have to wait but alot in this new dac ha to do with USB....Not sure what chip or "NEW" tube implation he will use...but sounds to me as a one man band who made a great reasonible dac is going for the golden egg.....my audio club will buy and give the most honest review....skeptical...too say the least