DAC upgrade from RME


A couple weeks back I inquired as to a preamp upgrade, most likely tube, and received much appreciated advice. I now wonder if the upgrade bug should begin with the RME, although in many circle it receives very high marks. When listening to jazz trios/quartets I notice sharp piano strikes can become quite strident. I’m looking into NOS, R2R dacs with good USB capability. Mojo, entry, medium Lampi’s, Gordon Rankin Wavelength, Border Patrol SEi are a few where I have interest. Not so much the Chinese made R2R ladder dacs.

kckrs

Showing 4 responses by kckrs

Thanks - I’d prefer a higher end unit which would mean used. I forgot to mention Audio Mirror in my search. Tubadour 3 preferably 4. I can’t see spending more than $3K, three and a half max max. I’ve seen two Mojo’s that fall there. 
Thanks

Indeed it does but still comes off as strident. And while I do favor detail it comes with too much sharpness. And while I may be considered a simpleton I find the menu system extremely frustrating to use. And yes I am considering a couple pieces on TMR with the RME in a deal. 

Thanks guys.

Any users/samplers of the Audio Mirror Tubadour(s)? They seem highly appreciated and I’ve dealt with Vlad in the past. Owned both his 20 and 45 watt single ended amps and still own his older T-61 preamp. Great CS.

Soix - I agree about too far to the soft(er) sound as I do like detail, transparency and a quiet noise floor. 
 

Are tubed DACs designs an oxymoron? Pop the hood on most dacs and they’re an 

testament to extreme engineering compared to something like the Border Patrol, Wavelength even Gishelli Labs. There are times when the KISS theory makes sense. Provided it sounds right - 

I have added a LHT linear power supply to the RME .

It may have added a bit of weight but it wasn't a revelation.