[PanamaRed]

Hi there all,
 
I've been lurking on this site for a month or so just trying to become better acquainted with high quality headphone audio.
 
I will be ordering a Woo Audio WA2 and would like to match it with a DAC that is reasonably priced (< $1000).
 
I've read that a tube dac might be a better choice but would like your input (Also perhaps recommendations on interconnects would be great)
 
My headphones are: Grado RS-1, 325is and Sennheiser HD650
 
My current digital output is a ASUS Xonar Essence STX (but my computer also has a toslink out built onto the motherboard), I'm planning on eventually getting a higher end CD player down the road.
 
Thanks very much for your help in advance.
 

 

[sphinxvc]

There is no "better choice", it's ultimately a preference thing between tube DACs and the others.  Take a look at MDHT Labs for tube-based DACs.  Audio-GD DAC gear (non-tube) is popular.  Woo might have a DAC too very soon.  

  
 
It doesn't seem like you will need a balanced DAC so you may want to keep that in mind, unless you plan to move to balanced in the future.

 

[sridhar3]

Quote:

Take a look at MDHT Labs for tube-based DACs.

 
x2.  MHDT Havana is a fun and musical DAC.

 

[Fantasysage]

I am really liking my PS audio with my 325is.

 

[Chronos29]

I'm using a Pro-Ject DAC Box FL with my tube here.
It's a solid state DAC but it's nicely built and shows it's colours well even though I'm only using Grado SR80i's at the moment =D 
 
I got it at $99 on sale at my local shop. They're in the ballpark of $200 though I do believe.
 
Anyway, in my case it's a great deal on a great piece of equipment. 
 
 
I've tried it on it's own from an optical out on my macbook and even then un-amped the clarity of sound that I was looking for is present.
It just sounds great coming out of a tube amp though. Very rich warm sound with smooth highs. They bring some bass response to the table for your grado's too. My ears can vouch for that. =) 
 
 
One of the best under $400 in my opinion