CAL Alpha DAC: Stock vs. 24/96 upgrade

Kevin,

I have 2 "stock" Alphas and just last week purchased an upgraded Alpha on Audiogon. I did what CKOFFEND suggested above and bought an upgraded version to compare. After listening for a week I have to say that there is a difference but not a $500 difference. If you invest in good tubes you will get more bang for your buck (IMHO). I used the Mullard CV4004s that came with my new DAC in my original Alpha and was floored (approx. $180 at Upscale Audio). I use Telefunkens and Mazdas in my other 2 DACs and am very happy with the results. These DACs respond well to NOS tubes and I highly recommend tube rolling before dropping $500 + shipping. I am very happy with both versions and can't believe the bang for the buck they offer.

Yes, I tried the Mullards in both Alphas with very pleasing results. If I had 3 sets, all my Dacs would have them. The Telefunkens and Mazdas have more air in the highs but the Mullards vocals are crystal clear (most of my music is vocal and acoustic). I have not heard modified players compared to the Alpha but saying they "crush" the Alpha may be pushing it. The Alpha is very hard to beat for the money. Plus with the next wave of audio being music server based, a nice tube DAC will come in handy. My neighbor already uses his SigmaII with an AppleTV in a 2 channel set up with Dali Helicon 400s and a Prima Luna Dialoge integrated. WOW! Both audio and video are outstanding. Plus the simplicity of a music library at your finger tips. I am planning on that next leap with my systems (which is why I have 3 Alphas).