CAL Alpha DAC: Stock vs. 24/96 upgrade


I recently purchased a used stock (I believe 18-bit) CAL Alpha Tube DAC. I'm considering the 24/96 upgrade. Those of you who are familiar with the sound of both, please weigh in. Also, tubes that you like with either version, what sound do they produce? My DAC came with the Eico/Mullard brand 12AX7/ECC83. Thank you in advance.
routeman21
Buda, Thanks for the info. Are you saying the Mullard CV4004's sound great in your stock AND upgraded Alpha? When I purchased my Alpha it wasn't being used by the previous owner for quite some time so it didn't sound that good the first couple of days I used it. On the third day something happened: It smoothed out & just sounded wonderful. So for now the Eico/Mullard tubes are staying in it. That doesn't mean I won't tube roll.
Kevin
The eico/mullards are tough to beat as long as they test strong. 5751's will definitely have a different personality.

You'll never get the $500 back out of it if you sell the unit. So, do you intend to keep it forever? Alpha are nice but I have never missed mine. A modded music hall or denon dvd will crush the alpha's sound.
Elevick, What personality do the 5751's have? I own a stock Denon 2930 DVD player. Have you heard one modded? Let me know. Thanks,
Kevin
Kevin, if you send in the alpha to the service company (Kevin there) will tell you to do this. Repairing these is a big part of his servicing of the Alphas.
Ckoffend, I don't understand what you're saying. Please explain in more detail. Thank You!
Kevin