tube dac

I've tried several tube DAC's but found they lost out at what digital does best.
If you prefer overly warm colored sound , go for it.

Look, just because one tubed system sounds soft does not mean that all will. Likewise, SS systems are all over the map from harsh to analog-like.

If tube design is done well, and I'm talking about power delivery, it will do everything as well and have a more liquid midrange. The highs may not go quite as high and the lows may be a bit flabby, but that is the compromise with tubes.

One of the best tubes for DAC output is the Siemens CCA grey-plate. I have a DAC with near-new ones in it. The highs are every bit as good as my SS DAC. The lows are a bit flabby though.

If you find a good design, then the only compromise with tubes is a bit of flabbiness in the bass.

If you want tight bass, then stick with SS.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio

Whatever DAC you buy, plan on a NOS tube upgrade. It can take the piece to another level, your pre-amp as well if you are running stock chinese tubes.

I didn't see that you had a tube CD player before. Talk to Andy at http://vintagetubeservices.com/ and upgrade that tube to the best one you can first. A small investment that will gain confidence in your future upgrades.

I totally agree with Steuspeed.You can can get all of the frequencies right including tight bass with different tube combinations.All of the brands sound different and it takes some time and patience to find the ones that shine in your particular components.