So i have a decent setup now, with multiple headphones, and I would like to start looking to color my audio.
Whether that would be with additional dacs/amps/tube and more.
I would love to hear everyone’s opinions on this.
Current setup
THX AA789
Aune X8
Schiit Bifrost 2
(currently looking at preamps for record player)
I would like the components I use to be easily swapped out (so i can change sound coloring depending on what i’m listening too)
Maybe a hybrid like Monoprice Liquid Platinum or xDuoo TA10/20?
I am interested in rolling tubes (to change the sound), but I have no experience with tubes…
Little dot is a cheap tube amp that many people like as a way in the tube world. Around 100 USD/ euros in Amazon. Anyway in a couple of hours the more experienced guys will assist you I’m sure.
As MON bursts into the DMS “Did someone say, TUBES”
I would be looking at a mid-range option for a major piece of hardware
Tube AMP 300-800
Tubes …
Preamp recommendations 100-600
I just want the ability to easily switch depending on what I’m listening too, or if I’m playing around while listening
I’m interpreting this as you want to be able to quickly switch between your gear. I recently discovered this switchbox:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HF6MDCX/ref=cm_sw_r_apa_i_YTK1EbJF99RJ4
Far as I can tell, this switcher does NOT color the sound, but will allow, you to seemlessly switch between 4 inputs and send signal to 2 amps so you can play with sound colors.
I do have a schiit SYS, so I should be good (for now…)
I know I am getting into the dangerous part of audio listening.
I now have a good basic setup, what else can i do/add to mess with what i’m hearing…
If you’re looking to also be able to incorporate phono, you could look to something like the Pro-ject Tube Box DS2, or even an Asgard 3 with the phono card added since it’d stack nicely with your Bifrost 2, then add a tube buffer for coloration.
What about on the fly EQ adjustments like the Schiit Loki? This might be more “live” adjustments than powering off the amp, letting tubes cool, swapping, letting warm up to then see how much difference there is.
Bottlehead Crack (with or without Speedball), Hagerman Audio Labs Tuba, Mapletree Audio Designs has some options, Cayin HA-1A mk ii, Feliks Audio Echo & Expresso are all tube amp options in your stated price range.
I mean for what headphone are you planning to tube?
Freya+ w/tube rolling might be the best way to integrate without removing your sound chain. The Mono Platinum is also well reviewed for the price point.
You could spend ~$500 on the component and then another ~$250 on tube rolling. There also was that DAC that Zeos review with the many op-amps that can be rolled into it.
You can also insert vinyl into the equation and try varying Carts + phonos to your preference.
I’m staying away from Schiit for their Tubes.
I’ve seen their boards flex far too much for my liking.
Makes me worry about lasting constantly changing tubes
Welcome to a very deep rabbit hole, my friend.
A tube buffer is something I’m trying to decide about. I like to listen to things that are colored and not (including vinyl), so I might want a solid state record preamp with a tube headphone amp…
Glad to be here.
I know I am entering a deep hole with no bottom
There are a few tube companies that have a lot of experience with which tubes synergizes well with x amp. You may want to reach out.
R2R DAC n one of several tube options…not hybrid, OTL or the like.
Most of the ones I own and plan to buy (to be honest)
I know that isn’t helpful
(I’m getting into tubes to play around)
So since I can’t recall of the top of my head, what are they again lol?