Tube DAC Recommendations

I doubt you will find a 'consensus' here, either. I have a new Aesthetix Romulus CDP, which is quite impressive. The DAC-only version is the Pandora. Mine is still breaking in fully, but the sonics are very nice. Superb tonality of instruments, excellent imaging, and very pleasing to listen to. Also top build quality from Aesthetix.

Ddelisle911:
I do not have any other sources running through the Romulus, although it is possible. I have heard computer-sourced audio running through 2 different Romulus units, and it sounded very nice both times, enough for me to purchase my unit. Mind you, I do not care if my CDP is tube or SS, as I made this choice based upon sonics, price, functionality and ease of service. It definitely weighed heavily in my decision that Aesthetix is largely a Southern California product, and that the potential for service would not be too daunting, if required in future. I don't feel comfortable offering too much of a detailed 'review' until I spend more time with it. But I really, really like it. I have a pretty kick-ass analog rig, and this unit compares favorably. If you are truly interested in more details while in the midst of a purchase decision, I will offer more in an effort to help you. Good luck.

Ddelisle911
First, the Romulus has a recommended break-in of 400 hours, but after the 50-hour mark (of playing), mine opened up and started to shine. First, the sound is rich and full (a bit more so than my analog). I would not say it is 'phat', but it leans in that direction (with the factory tubes). Overall sonics are very pleasing, and it does sound remarkably analog in its reproducton (no hint of digital sonic traits). Second, instruments are reproduced faithfully (more easily said than done in many systems). Piano sounds like piano; saxophone sounds like sax; cymbals sound like cymbals. Those instruments are tests for me. Next, imaging is exemplary. Huge, wide and deep soundstage, with good placement of images (although not pinpoint). Here is where I proceed with caution, as these categories are picky, delicate, subjective and my unit is still not fully broken-in. And, I strongly suspect that swapping with NOS tubes would change or eliminate any concerns (but I have not tried that yet until full break-in).... My analog rig and the rest of my system are so very good that these items only present themselves with repeated, critical A/B listening.......Macrodynamics are very good (but not a 10). But they are realistic, and I have heard digital rigs that do rate a 10 in dynamics, but they are over the top and are not realistic. Microdynamics are excellent(but not a 10). Air and space between instruments are also quite good (but not a 10). Now, please understand that these are very, very picky points which would definitely change with different tubes. Even if they remained, the Romulus would still be my choice, as it is sooooo nice to hear playing. It is only that the rest of my system is so on-target that these minor things are noticed IF I listen for them! I hope to expand on these preliminary results in a few months and after trying some NOS tubes. This is just my attempt to help you make your decision.
My System: Tyler Woodmere speakers; CODA 15.0 Amp; Purity Audio Designs Ultra GT Preamp; SOTA Cosmos Vacuum TT; Graham Phantom Supreme Tonearm; ZYX Universe Cartridge; CODA 06P Phono Preamp; Purist Proteus Provectus Tonearm Cable; Purist Venustas Interconnects and Speaker Wires.

Ddelisle911:
Yes, the Romulus absolutely fulfills my expectations. Full, rich, warm, pleasing with plenty of natural-sounding detail. The sound invites the listener to keep listening. Just guessing here, but I would think the only folks who may not be enamored with the Romulus would be those seeking the ultimate in bare-knuckle resolution, music be damned. It is funny that not much has been published yet about the Romulus or Pandora, although I suspect that some good reviews are coming before long. Let us know what happens.

Glad I was able to help. I will post back as requested, and I hope that you are able to favorably post back after your unit has broken in.

Ddelisle911:
I have been away on vacation for nearly 2 weeks, so nothing new to report currently. I will let you know in future.

Just following up with my listening impressions after further break-in and tube swapping. Amperex 6922 and Telefunken 12AX7 have made my Romulus a virtual match for the sonics of the rest of my system. More liveliness and emphasis on the high frequencies and less bloating in the midrange and upper bass. And it maintains all the analog sonic qualities that I prefer. This is the last stop for me, as I am very pleased.