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what are the Best Direct to amps Digital Players ?

Hi, I have had two tube digital players, one solid state in 14 months,I like the sound of alot of tube players, However, It always seems that tube players have problems!, These days, alot of solid state players out perform the tube players in every way!, Tube or solid state, what is the best sounding, most reliable, all cost points!, Digital that can be used direct to amplifiers?,, Thankyou!
audiolabyrinth

Showing 2 responses by audioengr

audioengr
3,282 posts
 
The key here is the volume control technology. There are only three that compete with the very best preamps:
1) DACs that control volume by adjusting the reference voltage
2) Transformer-based line-stages added to DACs, such as this one:
http://app.audiogon.com/listings/solid-state-music-first-classic-silver-cryoed-transformer-line-stage-2013-06-29-preamplifiers-97759-black-butte-ranc-or

3) Line-out of a high-drive output DAC to amps directly and use digital volume control - least attractive and most dangerous.

All of these require that the output stage of the DAC be as good as the very best preamps on the market, including drive strength, output impedance and power delivery.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Audiolab - you will ultimately make many compromises in sound quality by combining transport and DAC, and you will probably spend the same amount of money.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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