[Charles Calkins]

 
   Hi Guys:
        Any recommendations for an external tube DAC that doesn't cost a lot of $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
        would be greatly appreciated.

                                                            Cheers
                                                           Charlie
               

[mcgsxr]

Grant Fidelity TubeDAC-11 (current model) or the older TubeDAC-09.

I have a modded 11.  Like it very much. 

[JackD]

Charles

Don't know what your definition in this situation of not a lot of money, but up to $1k either one of the Musical Paradise DACs will do the trick and for more the new model Lampi Amber II for around $1800.  I have the Musical Paradise MP-D2 and really like it.  It is attractive, well built and allows for rolling various voltages of rectifiers and input tubes.  In addition you can roll different capacitors without soldering. 

[I.Greyhound Fan]

Here is one-

http://www.jolida.com/product/glass-fx-tube-dac-iii

http://www.stereotimes.com/post/jolida-glass-fx-tube-dac-iii-w

[Bob2]

.

[mreeter]

http://www.morningstaraudio.com/product/minimax-tube-dac-supreme/

Pin type op-amps can be easy to roll along with the 12AU7

[rajacat]

At $1200, the tubeNOS (non over sampling)/R2R DAC Mhdt Pagoda looks very interesting. I have a much earlier Mhdt dac, the Constantine (solid state) which has given me good service for quite awhile. There are other, less expensive, tubed Mhdt dacs in the lineup which also could be good options.
http://www.head-fi.org/t/799153/mhdt-lab-pagoda-a-review

[Escott1377]

If you can find a used Cary 100t DAC, it is a great unit.  Probably in the $1k - 1,100 range.

If you have a local Cary dealer, reach out to them and see if they can help you find 1.

Did not have a sales cycle since Cary introduced the 200t quickly behind it for DSD capability.

The 100t uses the 6922 variant and the Russian equivalents can be found easily from Ebay.

Not sure where you are, but I am zip 29607 if you are nearby and would like to hear and open 1 up.

[bacobits1]

I looked at that Mhdt Pagoda more than once. I like BB.

Although not tube the CIA VDA2 with PS is very nice sounding also BB