Here’s a custom build factory trade-in that I’d uses myself if my system needed a buffer. Full warranty of 3 years applies (not including tubes). Following is a brief description:
USB DAC
The usb input receiver is based on an Empirical Audio 24/96 low jitter receiver board (which I believe is found in an Off-Ramp) using the TAS1020B that runs software developed by CEntrance and that both Steve and I hold a license for. There is a separate regulated power supply for the receiver. Frankly, I put this arrangement up against anything going. Really clean, clear, and quiet with a nice black and expansive sense of the acoustic space.
The DAC is a non-oversampled arrangement based on the venerable TDA1543 with a discrete regulator for the same. The I/V uses my proprietary circuit and some of my favorite copper foil in oil coupling caps.
OUTPUT BUFFER/LINESTAGE
The buffer is based on the 12B4 (a pair of NOS 12A4As are included) though the 12A4 may be use for a bit more gain, if needed. NOS Allen Bradley resistors provide the plate loads and carbon composition resistors are used for the grids and cathodes (bypassed). The buffer stage is likewise capacitively coupled using some of my favorite copper foil in oils. A massively over specified toroidal transformer with CLCLC filtration is used for the B+ power supply for the buffer stage.
CONTROLS
Dual controls on available on the front panel provide for input selection and volume control. The left control selects one of the USB DAC or three line inputs for use with the line stage. The right control adjusts volume.
PHYSICAL
Cardas Rhodium RCA input jacks are used along with a Schurter power switch and integrated IEC AC power inlet. Beautiful Corian solid surface side panels (the picture don’t do them justice) for a non-resonant chassis with anodized CNC machined top, front, back and bottom panels, constructed using stainless steel hardware fasteners though out. Point-to-point construction for the line stage.
Basically what one has here is a USB DAC with a tube buffer or, viewed another way, an tube line stage with the added benefit of a USB DAC. Either way, it sounds excellent.
Asking $1500 plus shipping.
For additional questions, please call 513 697-1187.
