Thank you Tyson for the review.
I have a few questions:
Does anyone know if the tube is replaceable? User replaceable only? Factory replaceable? And, what's the expected tube life?
How well does this rate as a pre-amplifier? If this is truly a great little tube pre-amp, then that certainly opens some options.
If someone is already using a great tube pre-amp, then how does a tube buffer necessarily improve upon the "tube" sound when using a tube pre-amp? I'm not challenging anyone's sentiments; rather I'm trying to understand the concept of using a tube buffer WITH a tube pre-amp.
Thank you.
1. Good questions. Quick answer: No the tube is not user replaceable. Long answer: The GE JAN 5670 tube is an absolute BEAST of a tube. Long life, tightest tolerances on grid current, low noise and microphonics, thick glass, and most importantly exceptional longevity not to mention, musical beyond belief. I will be posting tech notes for both the iTube2 and the GE JAN 5670 tube soon so keep your eyes open. As with all iFi gear we stand behind the quality and if for any reason there is ever any issue let us know. One note of caution, we cannot speak to the specs and installation of any tube by a the end user.
This will void the warranty and is discouraged. There is a reason we use this specific tube. It's because it is the best and most reliable in this application.
2. How does it do as a preamp? you tell us!
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=148127.msg1584465#new Check out our iTube2 AC exclusive Tour! 3. How does it improve upon the 'tube' sound when using another tube preamp? For one, impedance matching, for two gain control if you wanted more gain, you got it! just flip the switches on the bottom of the unit for +9dB for preamp or +9 for buffer. But again I encourage folks to find out for themselves by signing up for the tour!
Hope this helps.