2. digital
  3. 158753-6055

DAC choices -- help me cross the line

My current DAC is Cambridge Audio Azur 851D driving the two channel speaker system in the study. My headphone system consists of a Bluesound Node 2i feeding into a Quicksilver headphone amp. The plan is to put the CA DAC in the headphone chain and sell the Node, so this means I have to purchase a new DAC for the 2 channel system in the study. Here's what the 2 channel system looks like ...
opticalRendu >> CA Azur 851D (to be replaced) >> Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum 2 >> Harbeth P3esr

So what am I looking for? Heft, holographic, a bit of warmth, big organic sound, tonal richness. I don't mind sacrificing a bit of neutrality or accuracy. I listen to all kinds of music but am partial to jazz, vocals, classic rock. 

I almost pulled the trigger on a Mytek Brooklyn DAC+ but wanted to take the R2R DACs for a spin just for kicks. I was initially interested in the MHDT Pagoda or Orchid, but their no-return policy is a no go for me. I know some people don't mind, but I really don't want to give my business to a company who doesn't trust its own products.

So this leads me to three final contenders -- AudioMirror Tubadour iii SE, Tubadour iii (regular/non-SE) and the Border Patrol DAC. Really interested in hearing from someone who might have heard at least one of the two, or better yet compared the Audiomirror to one of the MHDT DACs.

Now Audiomirror offers two versions of the Tubadour III -- SE and non-SE, with the SE being a $1000 costlier. Wondering if the sonic improvements are worth the higher $$$ in the SE version. Would love to hear from someone who has had a chance to compare the two.

Also wondering how the Tubadour III regular version compares to MHDT Pagoda. Both are around the same price.

Note: If are going to suggest another DAC, I don't mind. But please make sure it's R2R, < $2500 (used or new), has a return policy, and NOT made in China.

128x128arafiq
divertiti
223 posts
 
I have had Border Patrol and quickly sold it, it was overly colored, warmed to the point the instruments sound out of tune. I do enjoy a bit of warmth and sweetness myself, but Border Patrol did not strike a good balance.

I ended up with Denafrips which strikes a remarkable balance between bold, organic sound and dynamics with detail.
arafiq's avatar
arafiq OP
1,599 posts
 
@pastorbob -- thank you so much for taking the time to reply. You summed up everything so very nicely. The qualities you mentioned are exactly what I am seeking in a DAC. It’s reaffirming to know that the AM Tubadour ticks all the boxes for me. Seriously, this was really good feedback, and to the point.

Based on further input from @1markr and @divertiti, I have pretty much made up my mind to get the Tubadour III (non-SE version).

Oh, and please do continue the tube discussion on this thread if you like. I’ll probably be getting the itch to roll some new ones in a few months anyways, and can certainly learn from you guys.
pastorbob's avatar
pastorbob
74 posts
 
@arafiq,
Glad I could help.
You will not be disappointed with the Tubadour III
BTW, @1markr is a veritable wealth of information when it comes to tubes & audio in general.
Enjoy!
mflaten
12 posts
 
I have the Audio Mirror Tubadour III SE and it is a wonderful sounding DAC.  My setup uses highly revealing modified Klipschorn speakers and 2A3 SET amps (current configuration).  The AM seems to be the perfect compliment, the sound is smooth with tight articulated bass and the midrange especially for jazz is ethereal.  Vlad is also a man of integrity and very helpful.  Highly recommended.
rogerh113
19 posts
 
Depends on whether you are open to pre-owned.  There are a number of 'vintage' DACs that use the UA20400, and there is a reason it is called Ultra Analog!!  Several have tube output stages, further enhancing the analog experience.
The great part about used is that you can buy them at market rate, and then try them.  If you don't like them, then you can sell them at market rate.  Could be you will surprised at what 'vintage' sounds like.
More to discover