Tube DAC Recommendations

Ddelisle911:
I do not have any other sources running through the Romulus, although it is possible. I have heard computer-sourced audio running through 2 different Romulus units, and it sounded very nice both times, enough for me to purchase my unit. Mind you, I do not care if my CDP is tube or SS, as I made this choice based upon sonics, price, functionality and ease of service. It definitely weighed heavily in my decision that Aesthetix is largely a Southern California product, and that the potential for service would not be too daunting, if required in future. I don't feel comfortable offering too much of a detailed 'review' until I spend more time with it. But I really, really like it. I have a pretty kick-ass analog rig, and this unit compares favorably. If you are truly interested in more details while in the midst of a purchase decision, I will offer more in an effort to help you. Good luck.

Rtilden-
Thank you for your response. I am currently leaning towards the Romulus in order to get to have the CD option. I have plans to add some sort of music server/computer to complete the system. I am located in Honduras and will not have the opportunity to audition any DACS and service will be an issue. I am relying on the reviews from the various forums. My decision will be based upon on sonics, reliability, functionality. Please keep me posted on your break-in period as I will be making a decision within the next few days.
Tks

Ddelisle911
First, the Romulus has a recommended break-in of 400 hours, but after the 50-hour mark (of playing), mine opened up and started to shine. First, the sound is rich and full (a bit more so than my analog). I would not say it is 'phat', but it leans in that direction (with the factory tubes). Overall sonics are very pleasing, and it does sound remarkably analog in its reproducton (no hint of digital sonic traits). Second, instruments are reproduced faithfully (more easily said than done in many systems). Piano sounds like piano; saxophone sounds like sax; cymbals sound like cymbals. Those instruments are tests for me. Next, imaging is exemplary. Huge, wide and deep soundstage, with good placement of images (although not pinpoint). Here is where I proceed with caution, as these categories are picky, delicate, subjective and my unit is still not fully broken-in. And, I strongly suspect that swapping with NOS tubes would change or eliminate any concerns (but I have not tried that yet until full break-in).... My analog rig and the rest of my system are so very good that these items only present themselves with repeated, critical A/B listening.......Macrodynamics are very good (but not a 10). But they are realistic, and I have heard digital rigs that do rate a 10 in dynamics, but they are over the top and are not realistic. Microdynamics are excellent(but not a 10). Air and space between instruments are also quite good (but not a 10). Now, please understand that these are very, very picky points which would definitely change with different tubes. Even if they remained, the Romulus would still be my choice, as it is sooooo nice to hear playing. It is only that the rest of my system is so on-target that these minor things are noticed IF I listen for them! I hope to expand on these preliminary results in a few months and after trying some NOS tubes. This is just my attempt to help you make your decision.
My System: Tyler Woodmere speakers; CODA 15.0 Amp; Purity Audio Designs Ultra GT Preamp; SOTA Cosmos Vacuum TT; Graham Phantom Supreme Tonearm; ZYX Universe Cartridge; CODA 06P Phono Preamp; Purist Proteus Provectus Tonearm Cable; Purist Venustas Interconnects and Speaker Wires.

Dear Ddelisle911,

IMHO, the best DACs in the actual market are the Concert Fidelity DAC-040 tube vacuum d/a converter

http://www.enjoythemusic.com/superioraudio/equipment/0809/concert_fidelity_dac_040.htm

and the Wavelength Audio Crimson HS USB DAC (with silver transformers)

http://www.audiostream.com/content/wavelength-audio-crimson-hs-usb-dac

I know that with the first you can’t run Hi-rez file and the second is out of your budget, but the solution (IMHO) It could be the wonderful Metronome Technologie C2A that you can find used for about 7000USD.

I hope this help you.

Best regards,

the owner of audio logic,jerry osment passed away a few years ago ,i had his 52 that was fantastic but all good things come to an end