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Tube DAC Recommendations

I am in the market for DAC; my preference is a tube DAC. My primary music source will come from a computer or music server. The DAC will connect to Sim Audio 700i integrated amp. Budget is up to $7000 for the DAC.
I have been studying this forum over the last several months but cannot seem to find a consensus on the top 3-5 tube DACs.
Any input is appreciated.

Thanks
ddelisle911
doug99
288 posts
 
Here's a good thread on here where people compare Accustic Arts Tube dac to the Audio Aero Capitole tube cd player.
The Audio Aero Prima dac is the same tube dac used in the Audio Aero Capitole cd players.
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?ddgtl&1233644665&read&keyw&zzaudio=aero
rtilden
156 posts
 
Ddelisle911:
Yes, the Romulus absolutely fulfills my expectations. Full, rich, warm, pleasing with plenty of natural-sounding detail. The sound invites the listener to keep listening. Just guessing here, but I would think the only folks who may not be enamored with the Romulus would be those seeking the ultimate in bare-knuckle resolution, music be damned. It is funny that not much has been published yet about the Romulus or Pandora, although I suspect that some good reviews are coming before long. Let us know what happens.
ddelisle911 OP
34 posts
 
Many thanks to all for your advice on this matter. It was a huge help to me in narrowing down the list.
I have decided to go with the Romulus.

Rtilden-
I appreciate all your comments concerning your experience with the Romulus. Keep me posted on what you do on the tube end.
Best.. Derek
rtilden
156 posts
 
Glad I was able to help. I will post back as requested, and I hope that you are able to favorably post back after your unit has broken in.
bhobba's avatar
bhobba
303 posts
 
I am with Doggiehowser on this. I also have a PDX and have compared it to tons of stuff and nothing bests it so far. The only one that may do it is a Killer DAC which I have on order. I have heard it on a few occasions and know it is very good but haven't done a direct comparison to a PDX. That DAC was compared to a number of uber expensive DAC's by people whose ears I trust including an Audio Note and top of the line DCS Stack. The others were quickly eliminated leaving the Killer and DCS. It was a tie - the DCS was quicker with fantastic detail but the Killer simply sounded more natural and real.

To find out about a PDX check here:
http://www.lenehanaudio.com.au/index.php/products/pdx-usb-dac.html

To Find out about the Killer check here:
http://killerdac.com/forum/index.php

When I get the Killer I will be doing a detailed comparison as well as lending it to guys I trust such as Doggiehowser so they can do the same.

Thanks
Bill
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