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Birthday DAC

Hi all,

I have been asked by a family member to help choose a new DAC as a birthday gift. ( wish my wife was as generous ).  My sister in law is looking for an R2R Dac; preferably tube based.  The only kicker is she wants a smaller size.  Her price range 3-5 thousand dollars. I haven't been down this rabbit hole for a while and wonder if there are any suggestions I could share with her.

Thanks !

mpomerantz
pwoodard922
34 posts
 

+1 Denafrips Pontus 2.  Huge upgrade from previous Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M

macg19
675 posts
 

+1 for Black Ice Audio Glass FX Tube.

2 weeks new to my system. Customer service is outstanding. It’s a big upgrade from the NODE’s DAC. The supplied tubes after 200 hrs is a tiny bit harsh on the high end, but I’ve got some 50’s era Mullard’s coming from Brent Jesse, and that’s the point; if you don’t care to roll tubes, buy solid-state. On sale for $900 right now with an in-home no risk trial.

 

noodlyarm
91 posts
 

+1 for the Audio Mirror Tubadour SE DAC.   Version III and IV are both outstanding.   Tube NOS R2R DAC.   I love mine.

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,468 posts
 

Too bad size is a factor.  LAB 12 DAC 1 Reference is a great sounding DAC.   In June I can trade mine up for a DAC  twice the cost but it sounds so good I think I'm keeping it.     Great sounding DAC. 

mbmi's avatar
mbmi
455 posts
 

You just described, to a tee.......The Audio Mirror Tubadour SE....A FANTASTIC and Musical Tube based..R2R .zero feedback...$3500 smallish piece of Magic. I Love Mine !

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