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Maverick Audio TubeMagic D2 DAC

After weeks of research, I scooped one of these up because the price seems unbeatable for the hardware/specs provided. $274 delivered from the Chinese mfr ($249 ex works).
Analog Devices 1955 chip; Burr-Brown OPA2604 op-amps; tube pre-out stage includes JAN GE 5670/2C51 tube "upgrade".
Also solid state pre-out.
Optical, Coax (RCA & F-type), and USB (asynchronous, using the Tenor 7022L chip) inputs.
24/96 capability (unfortunately does not go up to 192).
Audiophile S/N ratios for both outs.
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After only 15-20 hours listening and break-in, I am thrilled. The tube out is fantastic; so rich, so full, yet so clean and dynamic. No tube fog or any sort of masking, just pure enhancement. Can't really comment on solid state out because I'm so smitten with the tube stage. Very dimensional and natural.
This thang has made a BIG improvement in my enjoyment of CDs (using an old Phillips CD/DVD player as transport) and the tube out is a step or five up from the Squeezebox Touch DAC that is also part of my setup.
VERY pleased and looking forward to even sweeter sounds as the TubeMagic breaks completely in.
More to follow...
colorfulpellets
jedinite24's avatar
jedinite24
1,503 posts
 
Hi Colorfulpellets

Thanks for the heads up on this. I thought the Maverick Audio Tube DACs were related to Grant Fidelity tube DACs. From looking at the TubeMagic D2 it is different vs. the Grant Fidelity DAC-11. Look forward to your further thoughts on the TubeMagic D2.
mjcmt's avatar
mjcmt
710 posts
 
When I saw this post I got excited, but the only thing that makes a Grant Fidelity DAC more useful for me would be the analogue input. I then would be able to eliminate the use of a preamp and use it direct to my tube power amp and still add another source. I have always liked a simpler more minimalist kit.
mjcmt's avatar
mjcmt
710 posts
 
I just read my post and realized I could have been clearer, and it may sound rude. Sorry about any wrong impressions I may have given.
The Maverick dac looks quite nice and I'd like to hear how the D2, G.F. DAC11, and other budget DACs compare in sound. I wish it had analogue inputs too.
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