Tube rolling Audio Note DACs

Jwaugh, Thanks. The rectifier tube I added was a Tungsol 6X5GT 1957. This is supposed to be a pretty popular tube with AN DAC users. And frankly yes, my system is fun to listen too. I'm glad to be at the point where I am. Some people dis Mcintosh, but I've tried many other brands and in the end you know what i like.

There was no mention in the manual about tube rolling or recs for such.

I put a pair of new JJ/Tesla E88CC into my 3.1x Balanced, and they did a very nice job - better extension and even more of that wonderful midrange clarity. A pair of NOS Brimars didn't work out as well. I left the rectifier alone.

I have a pair of Siemens CCa in my AN DAC 1,1 sig and they sounds great.

Interesting! I don't have my manual any more since I sold the 2.1x balanced, but thought it interesting that it was in there. Perhaps a different rev. of the manual. Mine was from Fall '03, so perhaps he added the section. Of not, I do still have my old dac 2.1x signature and its manual. The exact quote comes under the section titled "Experimenting with Different Valves" just prior to Warranty and Servicing" and it reads: "The best I have found is the Telefunken E88CC 01 gold pin, expensive, but worth every penny." As I mentioned, the CCa is close but preferable in my system... but it is always interesting to hear equipment the way the designer voiced it.

The TS is a nice rectifier. It is one of my favs for 6x5gt, but I have a slight preference for Mullard and Bendix. At that level, it is just a matter of taste, though.

Still recommend Tele CCas for detail and extension and the Amperex 7308 (JAN or PQs) for richness. Can't compare the two yet since my older PQs have not yet arrived...