Best EXTERNAL DAC suggestions

Moose89,

First congratulations on the pre-amp, that's a great start.

Second 12AU7 type tubes have gotten very expensive of late, my favorite are the Mullard NOS (not new production) or the NOS Amperex versions with gold pins....these will both be around $100 per tube, but are amazing tubes. NOS tubes will definitely give you the "warmth and soundstage" that you were referring to.

A very good 12UA7 tube is the NOS RCA "clear top" tubes which can be found under $40 and will be better than any new tube. Brent Jessee will carry a huge selection of 12AU7/6DJ8/and his reputation is perfect http://www.audiotubes.com/12au7.htm

Third if you do decide to go with a $1,000 DAC, I'd recommend looking at the Denafrips Ares 12th edition at $1,000.....not the Enyo/Ares II version for $870. It's definitely worth the extra $130; and is definitely on the "warmth and soundstage" side....and I'd add "fun" as well.

Moose89,

If you are getting the Ares II used and for a great deal, it's a really good DAC for the money. The internal DAC in the Node 130 (3rd generation) is much improved over the 2, and 2i versions, but the Ares II will be a very noticeable upgrade.

SPDIF refers to the topology of the signal, and usually comes in 2 flavors: digital RCA (digital coax) connectors, or optical  The Node 130 has both coaxial RCA and optical SPDIF digital out connectors, so no problem connecting with the Ares II. NOTE: The digital RCA cables are not the same as RCA cables used for analog audio interconnects.

If you later want to upgrade any cables at a reasonable cost: Lavricables, DHLabs, Zavfino, Morrow Audio, and Supra Cables (actually found on eBay) all make great cables and have many affordable options.