Valveglow
Super Member
Please allow me to preface this question by stating that I am aware of how a variety of factors and equipment could change the outcome of what I am seeking to determine. Yet, I am looking for those who bothered to intently A/B their systems to determine what's best. Any and all opinions are appreciated. Thank you.
My question involves the necessity of using a D/A converter to receive inputs from a CD player and a computer. Of three computer set ups I own, one is connected to a fully solid state audio system, while two are connected to fully tubed systems. I own one good, inexpensive D/A converter, a Maverick D2, and it is in circuit on one of the fully tubed systems. Is this really necessary? It's not as though I am listening through headphones and trying to get rid of transistor hardness. Listening is done almost exclusively through speakers. Also, I am definitely not inclined (nor do I have the ability) to spend real big money on a D/A converter.
Would it be better to use analog outputs from a computer or player and run them directly into a tubed preamp? The system sounds great as it is, but I am wondering whether the D/A converter is smoothing digital hardness or is in fact acting as an additional and unnecessary step in the "straight wire with gain" approach.
My question involves the necessity of using a D/A converter to receive inputs from a CD player and a computer. Of three computer set ups I own, one is connected to a fully solid state audio system, while two are connected to fully tubed systems. I own one good, inexpensive D/A converter, a Maverick D2, and it is in circuit on one of the fully tubed systems. Is this really necessary? It's not as though I am listening through headphones and trying to get rid of transistor hardness. Listening is done almost exclusively through speakers. Also, I am definitely not inclined (nor do I have the ability) to spend real big money on a D/A converter.
Would it be better to use analog outputs from a computer or player and run them directly into a tubed preamp? The system sounds great as it is, but I am wondering whether the D/A converter is smoothing digital hardness or is in fact acting as an additional and unnecessary step in the "straight wire with gain" approach.