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Potential DAQuestion - Tube preamps and Buffers

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I'm looking to smooth out the sound a bit, and have a potentially DAQ (Dumb a$$ question):

I run a CDP DAC and transport (Resolution Opus 21) into a tubed pre-amp (Audio Horizons TP2.0), then from there out to a digital Class D switching amp (Spectron MII Hybrid.) When I put the tube pre-amp into the system, it really helped to mellow out and improve the sound, as compared to a solid-state pre-amp I had tried and tested A/B.

So far, so good... I've been enjoying, but it can still be a bit brash. The Magnapan speakers only call out the brash detail.

Would a Tube Buffer help further, or is it a redundancy in the system? Do I need to consider the tech specs of each piece to determine that, e.g., output impedance*? Would it be a total waste of time and money?

Thanks,
Rob

* Just because I can spell 'output impedance' should not suggest that I know much about specs. :)

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rhanson739

Showing 2 responses by mik971

mik971
153 posts
 
Forgot to mention what Elizabeth did, "tube rolling" I use a Conrad Johnson pre-amp so the circuit is different from yours but I have definately fine tuned the sound of my system by changing tubes. NOS Telefunkens worked beautifully to take the edge off my digital system... I would maybe contact BJesse or other reputable tube dealers for suggestions.
mik971
153 posts
 
I owned and enjoyed a tube buffer, they work great for less expensive solid state amps in my opinion. Your current set-up is very, very nice, my guess is it would not work in your situation. (especially cosidering you have a tubed pre-amp already)
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