Tube for MHDT Labs Paradisea+ DAC

Thanks erndog, I will get a WE396 and try it out.

Tung Sol 5670 is very good. 

When I had the original Mhdt Paradisea DAC my two favorite tubes were the Bendix 2C51 and the GE 5 Star 5670. The Bendix is nicely detailed with great imaging and soundstage. The 5 Star is a close second and was a very good value at the time. The 5 Star did not impress me at first, but with some burn in became more coherent and much better sounding. Some people like the WE 396a, but I found it to be a bit fat in the lower mid-range and bass. The D getter WE 369a tubes seem to be considered a bit better than the later O getter tubes.

I had/have a Havana so can't comment on the buffer tube in the Paradisea but I definitely preferred the Bendix 2c51 over both the WE 396a D getter or the Tung Sol which is also very nicely balanced. I suppose it depends more on taste and system balance as much as  anything. I preferred the overall detail and clarity that the Bendix offers. It's probably a good idea to try them all! In any case the MHDT products while lacking the last word in detail are still so enjoyable to listen to and a reason I can't part with my Havana.

Still have my Paradisea+ as backup for my Lampy. I have tried most of the contenders in mine including the WE396 and the absolutely best tube is the Bendix 6385. Be warned the Bendix is rare, quite expensive and might not be worth the effort.